AKURE—The defection of  Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State from the Labour Party to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP,  has been described by stakeholders in the state as the best political move the governor has made at this time.

Governor Mimiko had met with different interest groups in the state to intimate them of PDP‘s request that he should join the national ruling party.
The groups Mimiko met with included members of the House of Assembly, traditional and religious leaders, captains of industries, workers’ union and artisans among others.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Jumoke Akindele commended the governor for consulting with the House and declared that the lawmakers were in favour of the move.

According to the speaker, “We all joined the Labour Party because of the governor, and for him to have consulted with us over this issue is a great privilege. We pledge this day that your (Mimiko) God will always be our God.
“This is the most rational thing to do at the moment in view of the fact that Mr Governor is not going for a third term in office. He would not have engaged us in this wide consultation if he is a selfish leader. That is why we are offering our support for a better Ondo State.”

Traditional rulers and religious leaders who spoke during their meetings with Governor Mimiko on the issue were also unanimous in their support, stating that their belief in the governor’s move would be in favour of the people and secure the future of the state.
When contacted, the Commissioner for Information, Mr Kayode Akinmade said “Consultation is still on going on the issue.”