A younger brother of the former Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, Abbas, has been selected as the candidate of the Zenith Labour Party for the forthcoming governorship election on November 16.
Abass Mimiko, who is a medical doctor, was chosen as the candidate without the need for a vote, in the primary election of the party held on Wednesday at the state party headquarters in Akure, the state capital.
After his selection, Dr. Mimiko told the party members that if elected as the next governor of Ondo State, he would prioritize education, health, the economy, and security of the state.
He stated, “We are a powerful contender in this election. We will make sure there is enough food for everyone within a year of taking office, and we will make quality education affordable. Additionally, our plans include industrialization, housing, and free health services for all residents.”
When asked if the former governor Mimiko is supporting his ambition, given that they are in different political parties, Abbas stated that his brother is backing him in his quest to become the next governor of the state.
“Former governor Mimiko expressed confidence that everyone will benefit if Abbas becomes the governor of the state. My brother is pleased that I'm running because he knows I will build on his accomplishments,” he announced.
Before the primary, the party conducted a state congress where Mr. Cornelius Akintoye was chosen as the new state chairman of the party.
In his comments, the National Secretary of the ZLP, Mr. Yahaya Wakama, stated that the party was prepared to take over the state from the ruling party and urged the members to work diligently to achieve this.
“However, let's not forget that the coming days will be even more challenging and troubling. The signs of what we should expect are already apparent, such as harassment, attacks, and economic pressure, which are some of the tactics the ruling party will use to try to thwart the will of the people.
“But we cannot give up. We must be determined to rescue our state from the brink and the predators whose sole aim is to destroy the state. We must continue to be the voices of our people and work for their improvement.
“As we select our governor today, let's keep in mind that while he will be our leader, he cannot accomplish anything alone; he will need us. Therefore, we all need to pitch in.
“The journey has begun and the work has commenced. No one can stand idly by, and in fact, no one should. We all need to be fully committed. That is the only way we can achieve our desired outcomes.”
The ruling All Progressives Congress conducted its primary on Saturday across the 18 local government areas of the state.
The state governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, emerged as the winner, receiving 48,596 votes, surpassing the other 15 candidates.
