Mimiko Advocates for Power Devolution in Nigeria

Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, the former governor of Ondo State, has called for the devolution of power as a solution to Nigeria's governance challenges.

Speaking at the Pastors’ Seed Event during the 74th Annual Convention of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), he emphasized that the excessive concentration of authority at the federal level has contributed to persistent national problems. Mimiko referenced the "Jethro Principle," which advocates for delegating responsibilities to capable leaders to enhance effective governance.

He argued that governance is most effective when power and resources are devolved to local governments, allowing them to tackle local issues while the federal government addresses national concerns. He acknowledged President Bola Tinubu's administration's efforts to decentralise areas like policing and resource management but insisted that broader structural reforms are necessary to combat systemic governance failures.

Mimiko highlighted that centralised governance has led to insecurity, corruption, poverty, and ethnic tensions, asserting that leaders closer to the people should be empowered to address local challenges.