Addressing the crowd, protester Henry Pwajok Lodam stated that the demonstration was broader than political issues, aiming to highlight the plight of citizens held for prolonged periods without trial. He alleged that some detainees have spent years in custody without their cases reaching a proper conclusion.

“The judiciary in Nigeria is broken,” Lodam declared, calling on judicial authorities to ensure due process and protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation, social status, or circumstance.

Lodam further condemned what he termed undue influence of the executive arm over the judiciary, arguing that judicial independence is vital for the survival of democracy. “If the judiciary is not allowed to function independently of the executive arm of government, then there is no democracy,” he stated.

While acknowledging that various groups hold grievances against former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai regarding his administration, Lodam argued that such disagreements should not prevent any individual from receiving a fair hearing under the law.

“We are not saying that we believe that his government was fair to all. But what we are saying is that we need the justice system of this country to be cleaned up,” Lodam said, citing the continued detention surrounding El-Rufai as a case deserving of proper judicial scrutiny.

The group subsequently demanded El-Rufai’s release, while emphasizing that this call applies equally to all Nigerians who may be unlawfully detained.

Acknowledging the nation’s turbulent journey of triumphs and challenges, Akpabio stated, “Nigeria lives in the farmer tending the soil, the teacher shaping a mind, the entrepreneur creating opportunity and the young person daring to dream.” He emphasized that despite moments of doubt, Nigerians have continued to work hard, create, serve, and keep faith.

Pledging the continued support of the National Assembly for the administration of President Bola Tinubu, Akpabio prayed that the anniversary would renew the resolve of Nigerians to serve the nation with integrity, compassion, and devotion.

“On behalf of the Senate, the 10th National Assembly and my family, I extend warm felicitations to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Nigerians everywhere on our 66th Independence Anniversary,” he stated. Reflecting on the nation’s journey, he added, “Sixty-six years ago, our national flag rose to proclaim the birth of an independent Nigeria… That flag still flies, and that promise still calls us forward. Happy 66th Independence Anniversary! May God bless every Nigerian home, guide our leaders, and preserve the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”