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Ekiti State election to validate President Tinubu's influence, says APC chieftain
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Henrich Akomolafe, an All Progressives Congress chieftain and House of Representatives aspirant, stated that the anticipated victory of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji in the June 20, 2026, election will serve as a referendum on President Bola Tinubu's leadership. Akomolafe described the Ekiti poll as more than a state contest, suggesting it would reflect public confidence in the APC-led Federal Government. He praised Governor Oyebanji as a performer and bridge-builder, whose administration has brought stability, development, and renewed confidence in governance in Ekiti State. Akomolafe highlighted Oyebanji's leadership style, anchored on service, humility, and visible results, as strengthening public trust and positioning him for electoral success. He added that Oyebanji's policies prioritize the welfare of workers, youths, farmers, and traditional institutions, fostering peace and unity. The APC chieftain also connected the governor's expected win to the growing acceptance of President Tinubu's economic reforms, which he characterized as bold but necessary for long-term national stability. Akomolafe called for party unity and intensified grassroots mobilization to secure victory for the APC, urging youths, women, and community leaders to support leaders committed to service delivery for sustained development and peace in Ekiti State.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
The National Examinations Council NECO reported that 58,187 candidates sat for the 2026 National Common Entrance Examination for admission into Federal Government Colleges. This figure represents a decrease from the 64,578 candidates who registered in 2025. NECO Registrar, Prof. Ibrahim Wushishi, noted that female candidates, numbering over 31,000, outnumbered male candidates, around 26,000, for this year's examination, attributing this to efforts in promoting girl-child education. The examination was largely hitch-free, according to reports received nationwide. The Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, expressed satisfaction with the organization of the examination after visiting three centers in Abuja, noting orderly candidates and timely commencement. However, she raised concerns about absentee candidates in some centers and emphasized the need to investigate the reasons. The Minister also reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to improving educational infrastructure. Lagos recorded the highest number of candidates with 13,228, while Taraba had the lowest with 15 registrations.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan emphasized that Nigeria's future relies on robust institutions, an impartial judiciary, and adherence to the rule of law. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Law Week of the Yenagoa Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association in Bayelsa State, Jonathan urged legal professionals and judicial officers to uphold justice and fairness. He stated that the nation's progress and stability are contingent on its institutions operating independently and effectively. Jonathan highlighted that a prosperous future for Nigeria can only be achieved when the rule of law supersedes individual influence. He called for justice to be stronger than power, institutions stronger than individuals, and for the law to provide equal protection to all citizens, regardless of their status. The former president also advocated for reforms in the education sector to address contemporary challenges and meet global standards, stressing that sustainable national development requires accountable leadership, strong institutions, and an equitable legal framework.
President Bola Tinubu extended his congratulations to Pastor William Kumuyi, founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, on his 85th birthday. In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu lauded Kumuyi as a remarkable servant of God whose faith and dedication have shaped one of Nigeria’s most influential Christian ministries for over five decades. Tinubu highlighted Kumuyi’s impact on believers globally, noting that his voice, writings, and ministry, particularly as the convener of Global Crusade with Kumuyi, have reached beyond church walls and national borders, bringing hope and guidance to millions. The President also acknowledged the generational impact of Kumuyi’s ministry on families and leadership, transforming lives, restoring families, inspiring leaders, and strengthening the faith of generations of believers. President Tinubu concluded by praying for Kumuyi’s continued health, vitality, peace, and abundant grace. Born on June 6, 1941, in Erin-Ijesha, Osun State, Kumuyi founded the Deeper Life Bible Church in 1973 as a campus fellowship at the University of Lagos, where he was a mathematics lecturer. The ministry has since expanded into one of Africa's largest Pentecostal denominations, with congregations in over 150 countries. Kumuyi is recognized for his strict doctrinal standards, evangelistic fervor, and personal discipline, making him a respected voice in African Christia
The National Working Committee of the Peoples Redemption Party PRP has confirmed Donald Duke, a former Governor of Cross River, as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections. This decision follows the review of recent primaries by the Primaries Appeal Committee and subsequent approval by the NWC. The party's National Publicity Secretary, Muhammed Ishaq, announced that the NWC also upheld four other election outcomes for governorship, senate, House of Representatives, and state Houses of Assembly. All other candidates have been cleared for the 2027 elections, except for the Tarauni Federal Constituency of Kano, where the primary election was nullified. The PRP plans to field a total of 420 candidates across all elective positions. Ishaq reiterated the PRP's commitment to internal democracy and delivering credible leadership. Earlier in May, the PRP had screened and cleared three presidential aspirants, including Donald Duke, Dr. Nnaoke Ufere, and Yakubu Mohammed Kingsley. The Independent National Electoral Commission INEC previously warned political parties that primary elections conducted after its May 30 deadline would be invalid, unless a higher court overturns a Federal High Court judgment.