Mimiko, the iroko at 73 — by Dare Babarinsa
Friends and wellwishers are rolling out the drums and the trumpets to celebrate His Excellency, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, who turns 73 today. The University of Medical Sciences, Ondo City, which he founded when he was Governor, is hosting the first Alumni lecture in Mimiko’s honour. Of course, he is the distinguished guest lecturer.
Mimiko, a medical doctor who graduated from the then University of Ife, is one of the most consequential politicians in Nigeria. Cerebral, determined and competent. He has left his mark on the political and social tapestries of our great country.
We first met in 1992 when he was the Commissioner for Health in the cabinet of Governor Bamidele Olumilua. Since then, he has become a constant predicate of Ondo State politics.
He served in the cabinet of Governor Adebayo Adefarati and was the Secretary to the State Government under his successor, Governor Olusegun Agagu. He later served as the Minister of Housing in the cabinet of President Olusegun Obasanjo.
He succeeded Agagu as the Governor, becoming the first, and so far, the only Governor of Ondo State to serve for the two full terms of eight years. He is the only living former elected governor of Ondo State. His knowledge and experience, his sagacity and humility resonates well with the people.
His constant companion in his romance with power is Oluwakemi, his wife of many years. He remains a leader in high demand. He is one of the elders of Afenifere, the mainstream Yoruba political and cultural movement under the leadership of Chief Reuben Fasoranti, the Asiwaju Yoruba.
Mimiko retains his halo as a leader of consequence and integrity. Congratulations Your Excellency! May your shadow never grow less!
