The Zenith Labour Party governorship candidate in Ondo State, Abbas Mimiko, has stated that he does not need his brother, former Governor Olusegun Mimiko’s, endorsement to win the November 16 election. Instead, he seeks the support of the masses.
Abbas, who was part of his brother’s think-tank and contributed to the development of successful health programs, wants to be judged on his own plans and abilities, rather than riding on his brother’s achievements.
He emphasized that he has the experience and skills to govern the state effectively, focusing on rejuvenating the economy, agriculture, education, and security. Abbas criticized the major political parties, PDP and APC, for lacking vision and stated that ZLP is the third force in the election, poised to bring reform and development to the state, according to Peoples Gazette.
“I don’t want him (Mimiko) to give me any endorsement. What I need is the people, the endorsement of the masses, and the people of Ondo State,” said Mr Abbas. “I won’t vote for somebody whose brother is raising his hand, saying I became governor, come and vote for my brother. No!”
He added, “So I don’t want to be referenced. You can reference me as part of the success of the ‘Iroko’ phenomenon because we planned many of those good programmes together, but I can’t claim those programmes. I was not the governor; I want to be governor so that I can showcase the plans I have. Iroko’s administration will be child’s play with what we have around for Ondo.
“For me, and I’m being sincere regarding this, the two so-called major parties, I don’t consider any party a major party. The masses are supreme. But if you’re talking of the PDP and the APC candidates, definitely I will sit down and not vote if I have to vote on any of them because they are going to take us backwards,” he stated.
Meanwhile, INEC has listed 17 political parties to participate in the upcoming governorship election.
