2027: ZLP Not Dead in Ondo, Nigeria, Says Abbas Mimiko

Abbas Mimiko, the candidate for the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) in the Ondo State governorship election, has firmly declared that the party is far from dormant and is, in fact, strategically gearing up for the 2027 general elections. Speaking from his residence in Ondo town, Mimiko, brother to former state governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, emphasized that the ZLP is not only alive and well but also present across all 18 local government areas and every ward in the state.

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We are alive and well, vibrant, present in all 18 local governments and every ward in Ondo State. We have gone a little quiet, but that is a matter of strategy. The Zenith Labour Party is alive and committed to the upliftment of the people.

Mimiko clarified that the party's recent quietude is a deliberate strategy, not an indication of inactivity. He highlighted that the ZLP has aspirants vying for various positions, including those for the House of Assembly, and many are actively collecting nomination forms. This proactive stance aims to ensure the party's robust participation in the upcoming general elections, shifting focus from the current absence of a governorship election in Ondo.

Addressing concerns about potential deregistration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) due to alleged inactivity, Mimiko dismissed these insinuations. He pointed to the party's consistent national presence, with its national chairman frequently engaging in public discourse on national issues, and the fact that the ZLP currently holds elective positions in some states. Mimiko asserted that the party's ideology and membership remain strong, even if a platform were to be dismantled, underscoring the resilience of political movements.

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Why would they deregister us? Activity is a subjective term. Virtually every month, my national chairman is on national television addressing issues affecting Nigeria. He is at the forefront of the democracy struggle. I see no reason for deregistration.

Furthermore, Mimiko offered his perspective on Ondo State's current administration, commending Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa's initiatives like the proposed seaport and bitumen development. However, he also suggested that economic performance could be improved and that increased federal allocations should translate into more tangible benefits for citizens in healthcare, education, and social services. He noted that Ondo has yet to match the developmental trajectory seen during his brother's tenure, despite significant increases in state revenues following the removal of fuel subsidies.

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It is too early to completely judge this administration, but certainly things could have been done better economically.