Morning recap: UK varsities withdraw admission offers to Nigerians, why Peter Obi won’t win a ward in Anambra, other top stories

Some UK universities have withdrawn admission offers to Nigerian and Pakistani students amid stricter student visa rules and concerns over visa refusals, affecting international student recruitment.

Meanwhile, on the political scene, the NDC Chairman in Anambra, David Chukwudifu, claims Peter Obi could struggle electorally in the state due to an alleged rift between his supporters and the party’s existing leadership, which he says has weakened its grassroots structure.

Below are details of these and other trending stories:

1. UK varsities withdraw admission offers to Nigerians

Some UK universities have withdrawn admission offers to Nigerian and Pakistani students amid tighter student visa restrictions. According to the report, 22.7 per cent of UK study visa applications from Nigerians were withdrawn in the first half of 2026, compared with 4.5 per cent during the same period in 2025. Universities are reportedly concerned about rising visa refusals and the potential consequences for their recruitment of international students.

Read the full story here: https://punchng.com/uk-varsities-withdraw-admission-offers-to-nigerians/ 

2. Why Peter Obi won’t win a ward in Anambra — NDC chairman

The Anambra State Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, David Chukwudifu, has warned that Peter Obi could struggle electorally in the state if the reported division within the party continues. Chukwudifu alleges that Obi’s associates have sidelined existing party executives and weakened the party’s grassroots structure. He says the disagreement must be resolved for the NDC to compete effectively in Anambra.

Read the full story here: https://punchng.com/why-peter-obi-wont-win-a-ward-in-anambra-ndc-chairman/

3. 2027: Protest, relief as INEC releases final candidates’ list

• 2027: Aisha Yesufu urges Obi supporters to learn, play ‘Osun script’
• 2027: North-Central APC endorses Tinubu
• Regina Daniels celebrates 25th birthday in wheelchair, reveals health challenges

The Independent National Electoral Commission’s release of the final candidates’ list for the 2027 general elections has generated mixed reactions. Among the prominent opposition figures reportedly missing from the list are former minister Isa Pantami and Ogun State PDP governorship candidate Ladi Adebutu. The omissions have triggered concerns and political disputes over candidate nominations, party primaries, and compliance with electoral laws.

Read the full story here: https://punchng.com/2027-protest-relief-as-inec-releases-final-candidates-list/ 

4. 2027: Opposition, APC clash over campaign funding

Opposition parties have accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of enjoying a significant financial advantage ahead of the 2027 elections. They say economic hardship, alleged political intimidation, and concerns about reprisals are making it difficult to attract donors. The APC has rejected allegations of using public funds for campaigns, insisting that its financial strength reflects its support base and donor network.

Read the full story here: https://punchng.com/2027-opposition-apc-clash-over-campaign-funding/ 

5. Regina Daniels celebrates 25th birthday in wheelchair, reveals health challenges

Nollywood actress Regina Daniels has revealed that she has endured severe pain and mobility difficulties for several months, a condition that has left her relying on a wheelchair at times. In a birthday video shared on Instagram, she explained that what began as a minor health problem worsened and affected her ability to walk. She also expressed gratitude for improvements in her recovery and spoke about the emotional challenges of depending on others for daily activities.

Read the full story here: https://punchng.com/regina-daniels-celebrates-25th-birthday-in-wheelchair-reveals-health-challenges/