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The Radiant News, Port Harcourt (2026)

05/06/2026

Wike Urges Patience Over Rivers Governorship Candidacy Dispute, Says INEC List Will Determine Nominees

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has urged political stakeholders in Rivers State to wait for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to publish the official list of candidates before drawing conclusions about the outcome of ongoing legal disputes over party nominations.

Wike made the remarks while reacting to claims that court rulings had effectively nullified the candidacy of his political allies ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Rivers State.

The controversy follows a judgment that reinstated the leadership of Emeka Beke and declared invalid the congresses and processes that produced certain party candidates in the state.

Among those affected is Kingsley Chinda, a political ally of Wike, who emerged as a governorship candidate following the withdrawal of Governor Siminalayi Fubara from the race. Other associates of the minister also secured nominations for National Assembly and State Assembly positions.

The dispute intensified after Justice Elfreida Oluwayemisi Williams-Dawodu of the Court of Appeal, Port Harcourt Division, upheld an earlier ruling of the Rivers State High Court nullifying the congresses that produced Chief Tony Okocha as chairman of the party in the state.

Responding to the developments, Wike dismissed suggestions that the matter had been conclusively settled and maintained that the final position would become clear once INEC publishes the official list of candidates.

“In July, the candidates of the parties will be published by INEC. Let us wait till July. We are tired of hearing from people who have lost out,” Wike said.

The minister also commented on public reactions to recent school abductions in Oyo State, expressing concern over the safety of citizens across the country.

While condemning the abductions, he argued that the incidents should not be politicized and called for a focus on addressing the security challenges rather than exploiting them for political purposes.

05/06/2026

Datti Baba-Ahmed says Donald Duke can defeat Tinubu, Peter Obi in free and fair election

A chieftain of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Datti Baba-Ahmed, has declared that former Cross River State governor, Donald Duke, would defeat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Peter Obi in a free, fair and credible presidential election.

Speaking during an interview on Symfoni TV, Baba-Ahmed described Duke as one of Nigeria’s most qualified political leaders and argued that his political appeal has not been fully appreciated by many Nigerians.

The PRP stalwart's remarks come shortly after Duke emerged as the party’s presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to Baba-Ahmed, Duke possesses the leadership qualities and national appeal required to secure victory if the electoral process is transparent and credible.

“In a free and fair election in Nigeria, Donald Duke is the winner,” he stated.

Baba-Ahmed also drew comparisons with the 2023 presidential election, noting that many Nigerians underestimated Peter Obi’s electoral strength before the polls.

He warned that a similar miscalculation could be made regarding Duke’s prospects in the 2027 race.

The comments add to the growing political debate and realignment ahead of the next general election, as political parties continue to position their candidates and build support across the country.

Neither President Tinubu, Peter Obi nor Donald Duke had publicly responded to Baba-Ahmed’s remarks as of the time of filing this report.

05/06/2026

China imposes travel ban on New Zealand lawmakers over Taiwan visit

China has imposed a one-year travel ban on four New Zealand Members of Parliament following their recent visit to Taiwan, a move that has triggered diplomatic concern in Wellington and renewed tensions over Beijing’s claim to the self-governing island.

According to New Zealand’s foreign ministry, the lawmakers were informed of the travel restriction after returning from a parliamentary visit to Taiwan in May.

Officials said Chinese authorities indicated that the ban could be reviewed, reduced or lifted if the affected lawmakers issued an apology for the trip.

The decision has drawn criticism from New Zealand officials, who described it as an unprecedented development in bilateral relations.

A spokesperson for New Zealand’s foreign ministry noted that parliamentary visits to Taiwan have taken place for decades and are consistent with Wellington’s long-standing One China policy.

“New Zealand MPs have traveled to Taiwan for decades, and such visits do not contradict New Zealand’s One China policy,” the ministry said.

China’s embassy in Wellington defended the action, arguing that the lawmakers ignored Beijing’s concerns and sent what it described as “wrong signals” by engaging with Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party.

Beijing regards Taiwan as part of its territory and opposes official interactions between foreign politicians and Taiwanese authorities.

The lawmakers affected by the ban are Maureen Pugh, David Wilson, Laura McClure and opposition Labour Party MP Duncan Webb.

McClure condemned the decision, describing it as a form of foreign interference and insisting that elected representatives should be free to travel and engage with international partners.

“I will not apologize for visiting Taiwan,” she said, expressing surprise at the travel restriction.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters has called for discussions between officials in Beijing and Wellington to clarify the situation, describing the move as a departure from established diplomatic practice.

The latest dispute underscores ongoing tensions surrounding Taiwan, which operates as a self-governing democracy but is claimed by China as part of its territory. Taiwan rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims and maintains that its future should be determined by its people.

African News Digest reports that the Taiwan issue remains one of the most sensitive matters in China’s foreign relations and continues to shape Beijing’s diplomatic engagements with countries around the world.

For more international affairs and diplomatic developments across the world, stay with African News Digest.

05/06/2026

GOVERNOR MUTFWANG CALLS FOR COLLECTIVE ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, REAFFIRMS PLATEAU'S COMMITMENT TO ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has called on citizens, stakeholders, and all levels of government to intensify collective efforts to mitigate the devastating effects of climate change and safeguard the environment for future generations.

Governor Mutfwang made the call during the Renewed Hope Climate Change Awareness Tour (REHCCAT) 2026 Climate Townhall, organized by the Presidency in partnership with the Plateau State Government in Jos on Thursday.

The event, themed “Urbanization and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future,” brought together environmental experts, government officials, civil society organizations, traditional institutions, and community leaders to deliberate on sustainable solutions to emerging climate challenges.

Represented by his deputy, Ngo Josephine Piyo, Governor Mutfwang described the awareness tour as a timely and commendable initiative aimed at mobilizing citizens toward climate action and strengthening public understanding of environmental sustainability.

Governor Mutfwang noted that climate change remains one of the most pressing global challenges, threatening ecosystems, livelihoods, infrastructure, food security, and public health, particularly in developing nations.

He emphasized that environmental sustainability remains a core priority of the Plateau State Government.

"For us in Plateau State, environmental sustainability is not merely a policy aspiration; it is a moral obligation, our state is endowed with unique ecological assets, fertile landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a climate that has historically distinguished Plateau as one of Nigeria's most environmentally significant regions.

“Preserving these natural endowments for future generations remains a responsibility we take seriously," he stated.

Governor Mutfwang highlighted his administration's achievements in environmental restoration, watershed protection, afforestation, sustainable agriculture, and ecosystem management.

He noted that through strategic partnerships and innovative interventions, particularly the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, the state is strengthening resilience against environmental degradation and climate-induced vulnerabilities.

He further stressed the need for sustained investments in green infrastructure, renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, sustainable transportation systems, effective waste management, and nature-based solutions that enhance community resilience and promote sustainable development.

The Climate Townhall featured presentations and goodwill messages from climate experts, civil society organizations, traditional rulers, and development partners, all of whom advocated for inclusive, community-driven approaches to addressing climate-related challenges.

A major highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on climate action and the presentation of a policy document by the Plateau State Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development, Hon. Peter Gwom, to the REHCCAT team.

05/06/2026

‎GOV ENO COMMISSIONS ZITRA MICROFINANCE BANK BRANCH IN UYO, ASSURES SUPPORT TO PRIVATE SECTOR BUSINESSES
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‎Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting and partnering with financial institutions to enhance economic growth and opportunities for the overall development of the State.
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‎Speaking at the official commissioning of the Uyo branch of Zitra Microfinance Bank along Goodluck Jonathan Boulevard, Uyo, on Friday, the Governor who was represented by his Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Emem Almond Bob, said the establishment of the bank in Uyo - the state capital, is a significant leap to the financial services ecosystem of the State.
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‎Governor Eno said Microfinance Banks play a critical role in promoting financial inclusion, empowering entrepreneurs, supporting Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, and providing access to credit for individuals who may not be adequately be served by the conventional banking institutions.
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‎The State Chief Executive noted that his administration recognizes that sustainable economic growth is driven by private sector participation, innovation and investment, adding that the opening of Zitra Microfinance Bank aligns perfectly with his economic vision for Akwa Ibom State as encapsulated in the ARISE Agenda.
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‎"Akwa Ibom State government through the ARISE Agenda seeks to create opportunities for wealth creation, enterprise development, job generation and inclusive prosperity for all citizens. We remain committed to fostering a business-friendly environment where financial institutions and investors can thrive," he said.
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‎He encouraged the Bank to remain focused on its core mandate of providing accessible, affordable and innovative financial solutions, particularly to micro, small and medium enterprises, women-owned businesses, young entrepreneurs, artisans, farmers and other productive sectors of the State's economy.
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‎Governor Eno also commended the Chairman, Board of Directors of the Bank, Professor Akpan Hogan Ekpo and the management team for their vision and urged that they uphold the highest standards of corporate governance, transparency, customer service and regulatory compliance.
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‎Earlier, the Chairman, Board of Directors of Zitra Microfinance Bank, Professor Akpan Ekpo, said the event was a significant milestone in the life of the bank, having grown from one city to other major cities across the country in just few years of operations. He said Zitra Microfinance Bank exists to fill in financial gaps that would enable wealth creation for the people.
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‎Also Speaking, the Managing Director of Zitra Microfinance Bank, Mr Kufre Udeme, said the financial institution was in Uyo to support businesses, create jobs and opportunities for the people of the State, saying they have grown for from a capital base of 500million to over 10.5billion in two years.
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‎He appreciated the Akwa Ibom State Government for the support and encouragement in business while calling on citizens to take advantage of their different business portfolios to grow their businesses.
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‎At the event which attracted eminent personalities in the state including the private sector, goodwill messages were received from the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Linus Nkan, Chairman of AKIRS, Mr. Okon Okon, Managing Director of AKICORP, Mr. Imoabasi Jacob and many others.
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05/06/2026

Peter Obi urges Nigerian youths to ‘take back your country’ amid insecurity concerns

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on Nigerian youths to become more actively engaged in addressing the nation’s challenges, particularly insecurity, warning against the normalization of repeated security failures.

In a statement posted on his verified X account on Friday, Obi expressed concern over the growing incidence of school abductions and other security threats across the country.

Referencing the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls, the former Anambra State governor noted that the incident united Nigerians and attracted significant international attention through the campaign.

According to Obi, subsequent school abductions have not generated the same level of public outrage despite their frequency and impact on affected communities.

He argued that Nigeria may be becoming desensitized to insecurity, questioning whether incidents that once shocked the national conscience are now being treated as routine occurrences.

“The Nigerian youth must not become indifferent. We must all refuse to normalise failure. Young Nigerians – Take back your country!” Obi stated.

The NDC presidential candidate further claimed that while Nigeria experienced several school abductions during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, similar incidents have continued under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He expressed concern that national attention appears increasingly focused on political calculations ahead of future elections while many citizens continue to grapple with insecurity, poverty and economic hardship.

Obi called for leadership that is accountable, compassionate and committed to improving the welfare and security of Nigerians.

05/06/2026

Rainstorm Leaves Trail of Destruction in Asaba, Residents Count Heavy Losses

Residents and business owners in Asaba are grappling with significant losses after a violent rainstorm swept through the city, destroying properties and disrupting economic activity.

The storm, which struck parts of the Delta State capital, caused widespread damage as strong winds and heavy rainfall brought down billboards, electricity poles, and other infrastructure across residential and commercial areas.

One of the most notable incidents occurred at a car dealership, where a large billboard collapsed onto several vehicles on display, including a Mercedes-Benz and other cars, leaving multiple automobiles severely damaged.

Eyewitnesses reported that the storm uprooted and toppled several billboards, some of which fell onto major roads and nearby buildings, creating traffic disruptions and safety hazards for commuters and residents.

The destruction also affected electricity distribution infrastructure, with several power poles damaged, raising concerns over possible outages and further disruptions in affected communities.

Property owners have continued to assess the extent of losses, with many lamenting that assets worth millions of naira were destroyed within minutes of the intense downpour.

Residents are now calling on relevant authorities in Delta State to conduct a rapid assessment of the damage and provide support to affected individuals and businesses as recovery efforts begin.

05/06/2026

Obi Blasts Tinubu Administration Over Security Strategy, Cites Policy Inconsistency

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has criticised the security strategy of President Bola Tinubu, describing recent interventions as reactive and lacking a coherent national framework.

In a statement on Friday, Obi reacted to reports of federal approval for the recruitment of about 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State, arguing that such measures reflect what he called inconsistent and uncoordinated policymaking in addressing Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.

He contended that while strengthening security manpower is necessary, it must be done within a structured national plan rather than ad hoc approvals triggered by emerging crises in specific locations.

Obi further questioned whether similar recruitment exercises would be extended uniformly across all states facing insecurity challenges, noting that several parts of the country continue to experience varying degrees of violent conflict and criminal activity.

He also raised concerns about the implications of overlapping security arrangements, particularly in relation to existing regional security frameworks such as the South-West security initiative, Amotekun Corps, warning that unclear coordination could weaken effectiveness on the ground.

According to him, Nigeria’s insecurity challenge is rooted in deeper structural and governance failures, adding that fragmented responses have failed to address the scale and complexity of the crisis.

Obi argued that a sustainable solution requires what he described as a holistic “ecosystem approach,” incorporating security reform, economic productivity, and national integration, rather than isolated interventions.

He maintained that continued reliance on reactive policies risks worsening public safety outcomes, stressing that only a comprehensive national strategy can effectively address the country’s security challenges.

05/06/2026

RSU Extends Post-UTME Registration, Reschedules Screening Exercise

The Management of Rivers State University (RSU), Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, has extended the registration deadline for the 2026/2027 Post-UTME Screening Exercise and rescheduled the screening date.

According to the Acting Registrar, Dr. Idanyingi I. Daminabo, the adjustment was made to accommodate candidates currently sitting for the ongoing WAEC and NECO examinations.

The registration exercise, which was previously scheduled to close on Sunday, June 7, 2026, has been extended and will now end on Sunday, June 21, 2026.

Similarly, the Post-UTME screening exercise earlier slated to commence on Monday, June 15, 2026, has been rescheduled and will now begin on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

Candidates are advised to complete their registration before the new deadline and regularly check the registration portal for updates. They should also print their screening slips, which will contain details of their screening date, time and venue.

The University noted that all other information contained in the earlier advertisement remains unchanged.

RSU wishes all candidates success in their examinations and forthcoming screening exercise.

05/06/2026

Anambra Attorney General Arraigns Eight Pastors Over Alleged Staged ‘Miracle’ Scandal, Court Remands Suspects

The Attorney General of Anambra State, Tobechukwu Nweke SAN, has reportedly arraigned eight pastors before a State High Court over allegations of staging fake miracles using hired actors in what investigators described as “arranged miracles.”

According to court proceedings, the defendants were accused of operating various ministries within the state and allegedly orchestrating staged healing and prophetic demonstrations to deceive congregants and attract patronage.

The court heard that the alleged scheme involved recruiting individuals to pose as beneficiaries of supernatural interventions during church services, thereby creating the impression of divine miracles.

Following their arraignment, the accused persons were ordered to be remanded in correctional custody pending further proceedings.

The court subsequently adjourned the matter to 15 June 2026 for hearing of bail applications and other preliminary motions.

The eight pastors and their respective ministries, as presented in court records, are:

1. Ndubisi Nnachukwu – Omega Dominion Ministry

2. Ekeleme Chris Ugochukwu – Cloud of Glory Prophetic Ministry

3. Bishop Emeka Nwamkpa – Chapel of Faith Ministry

4. Peter Chukwu – Messiah Adoration Ministry

5. Chinedu Egwuonwu – Citadel of Grace Ministry

6. Ebele Nnachukwu – Jehovah the Mighty Than All Ministry

7. Miracle Iruoma – City of Power Ministry

8. Chukwukadibia Ogwuama – Land of Testimony Adoration Ministry

Authorities say the case raises broader concerns about fraudulent religious practices and the need for stricter oversight of spiritual institutions, while the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty by the court.

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