3rd October, 2026 | News

Nigeria at 66: CJN Reaffirms Commitment to Justice as Governors Call for Unity, Peace and Sacrifice

Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to fair and effective justice as state governors called for unity, peace, sacrifice and accountability to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

In her goodwill message to Nigerians, Kekere-Ekun said the judiciary remained committed to the efficient, effective, fair and impartial administration of justice.

The CJN said Nigeria had overcome several challenges over the past 66 years through the determination and resilience of its people, stressing the importance of strong institutions, fairness and public trust.

CJN Reaffirms Judiciary’s Commitment to Justice

Kekere-Ekun described the judiciary as an essential pillar of Nigeria’s constitutional democracy and emphasised its responsibility as guardian of the rule of law.

She said the judiciary remained committed to the fair, impartial and timely administration of justice, adding that public confidence in the justice system depends on the integrity, independence and humanity with which justice is administered.

The CJN also urged Nigerians to cherish their common identity and approach their differences with understanding, tolerance and a commitment to the greater good.

According to her, Nigeria’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than division when guided by mutual respect and a shared sense of purpose.

She also called on citizens to honour those whose sacrifices have helped preserve the country’s freedom and sustain its democracy.

Makinde Calls for Unity in Nigeria

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also urged Nigerians to remain united and appreciate the sacrifices made by the country’s founding fathers.

Makinde made the call during the 66th Independence Anniversary celebration at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

Represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal, the governor said Nigeria’s independence in 1960 was achieved through the sacrifices and struggles of the country’s founding heroes.

He said the freedom enjoyed by Nigerians today should inspire citizens to remain responsible and committed to nation-building.

Makinde noted that the Independence anniversary provided an opportunity for sober reflection on the challenges facing Nigeria and Oyo State.

He stressed that democracy and the rule of law were essential to effective governance.

The governor also urged Nigerians to see the country’s diversity as a strength, noting that more than 250 ethnic groups live together within Nigeria.

Mbah Pardons, Releases 13 Inmates

As part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah approved the pardon, release and commutation of sentences of 13 inmates in the state’s correctional centres.

The decision was made under the governor’s Prerogative of Mercy powers provided under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and following consultation with the state Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.

The beneficiaries include Kenneth Ozioko, Moses Saliyat, Promise Ndudim Olung, Chijioke Ugwu, Samuel Ani, Eugene Odo, Celsus Emeachi, Caleb Jatto, Calistus Eze, Gabriel Onu, Timothy Ani, Ernest Okeke and Ejike Nwodo.

While some of the inmates were pardoned and released, others had their death sentences commuted to life imprisonment.

According to the governor’s media aide, Uche Anichukwu, the decision followed reports of ill health and evidence of reform in the character of some of the inmates, as well as recommendations from the correctional authorities and the Advisory Council.

Uba Sani Calls for Sacrifice and Accountability

Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani said a better Nigeria could be achieved through unity, sacrifice and accountability.

In his Independence Day message, Sani urged Nigerians to work collectively towards building a country worthy of the sacrifices made by the nation’s founding fathers.

He said Nigeria’s progress depended on peace, security, responsible governance and improved opportunities for citizens.

The governor also commended President Bola Tinubu’s leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda and stressed the importance of citizens’ collective efforts in building a better country.

‘Democracy Must Deliver for Nigerians’

Sani noted that Nigeria had recorded 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule but said democracy must translate into security, opportunities and improved wellbeing for citizens.

He assured residents that his administration would continue working with the Federal Government to improve public safety in Kaduna State.

According to him, peace and stability are necessary for Nigerians to pursue their livelihoods without fear.

He said farmers should be able to cultivate their land, traders should be able to operate their businesses and children should be able to attend school safely.

Sani also urged Nigerians to reject division and embrace the country’s diversity, stressing that differences should strengthen rather than weaken national unity.

The governors’ messages, alongside the CJN’s Independence Day address, highlighted unity, rule of law, security, accountability, sacrifice and effective institutions as important elements in Nigeria’s continued development as the country marks 66 years of independence.