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Ekiti Anglican Diocese calls for fair play in 2027 elections and addresses national issues
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Ekiti Anglican Diocese of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion has advocated for a level playing field for all political parties ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general elections, emphasizing the need for credible, transparent, and inclusive electoral processes. This call was part of a communiqué issued at the conclusion of the Third Session of the Diocese’s 20th Synod, held in Ado Ekiti, with the theme ‘Children are the heritage of God.’ The communiqué, signed by drafting committee chairman Taiwo Olatunbosun and Secretary Emmanuel Ojo, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to remain impartial and ensure all lawful votes are counted, while also calling on anti-graft agencies to combat electoral malpractice. The Synod commended the Federal Government's anti-corruption efforts but requested intensification without bias, recommending transparent reinvestment of funds saved from fuel subsidy removal to alleviate citizens' suffering. Expressing concern over persistent violence, particularly in Northern Nigeria, the Synod urged President Bola Tinubu to intensify efforts and adopt enhanced collaborative strategies to address security challenges. It also welcomed international cooperation, specifically with the United States, in training Nigerian security forces in intelligence gathering and counter-terrorism operations. The Diocese highlighted the importance of youth development and encouraged greater participation of Christian youths in politics, calling on public off
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Must ReadThe Nigerian Exchange Limited experienced a significant weekly performance, with investors gaining N8.661 trillion due to heightened trading activity. Market capitalization increased by 6.60 percent, rising from N131.166 trillion to N139.827 trillion. The NGX All-Share Index also climbed by 6.57 percent, reaching 217,167.57 from 203,770.43 the previous week. A total turnover of 3.588 billion shares, valued at N195.313 billion, were traded in 254,553 deals, surpassing the 3.361 billion shares worth N151.948 billion exchanged in 229,442 transactions in the preceding week. The Financial Services Industry led sectoral activity, contributing 69.62 percent to total equity turnover volume and 48.13 percent to value. The Services Industry and Oil and Gas Industry followed in activity. Trading in Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc, Access Holdings Plc, and Zenith Bank Plc accounted for a substantial portion of the total turnover volume and value. Sixty-one equities appreciated during the week, while 36 declined, and 49 remained unchanged. Top gainers included Trans-Nationwide Express Plc and Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, among others. Conversely, Coronation Insurance Plc and Ikeja Hotel Plc were among the top losers. The exchange also activated codes for rights issues by Guinea Insurance Plc, Lasaco Assurance Plc, and Sunu Assurances Nigeria Plc, enabling investors to trade in these offers.
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