Mimiko advocates true federalism at RCCG convention
By Boye Oyeyemi
Former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, has called for the devolution of powers and resources as a lasting solution to Nigeria’s governance challenges, saying the country must adopt what he described as the “Jethro Principle” to promote efficiency and accountability.
Mimiko made the call on Tuesday while speaking at the Pastors’ Seed Event of the 74th Annual Convention of the Redeemed Christian Church of God under the theme, Mountain Movers, where he delivered a lecture on “The Government and Politics Mountain.”
Drawing lessons from Exodus 18, the former governor said Moses overcame administrative bottlenecks only after delegating authority to capable leaders, stressing that governance should be driven by merit, competence and decentralised decision-making.
He said, “The Jethro Principle teaches that effective governance must be built on merit, capacity and capability. Power and responsibility should be taken closer to the people so local issues can be resolved at the local level.”
Mimiko acknowledged ongoing efforts by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to decentralise aspects of governance, including policing and resource management, but maintained that broader devolution remained necessary to address Nigeria’s structural problems.
According to him, excessive concentration of power at the centre has contributed to ethnic tensions, corruption, insecurity, poverty and poor leadership, adding that a diverse nation such as Nigeria requires a truly federal system.
He further urged Christians and other Nigerians to participate actively in politics, insisting that governance directly affects citizens’ welfare through policies on security, education, employment and justice. “Politics should not be seen merely as a struggle for power but as a platform for advancing the common good,” Mimiko noted.
The former governor also cited biblical figures such as Joseph, Daniel and Nehemiah, alongside historical personalities including William Wilberforce and Desmond Tutu, as examples of leaders who used integrity and faith to transform society. He urged young professionals to regard public service as a calling, saying national renewal requires both prayer and responsible civic engagement.
