Why Abacha’s Ally Al-Mustapha Joins 2027 Presidential Race

FCT, ABUJA, NIGERIA – Major Hamza Al-Mustapha (rtd), former Chief Security Officer to the late military Head of State, General Sani Abacha, has officially declared his ambition to run for president in the 2027 general elections.

Al-Mustapha will be contesting under the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), which he joined in March 2025. He was previously the presidential candidate of the Action Alliance in the 2023 elections.

The formal declaration took place during a strategic meeting with the SDP state executive committee and supporters in Minna, the capital of Niger State.

While addressing the gathering, Al-Mustapha pledged to provide purposeful leadership anchored on integrity and the revival of the Nigerian nation.

He assured the party faithful and Nigerians of his commitment to a transformative and principled administration.

“I am pained and deeply concerned about the current state of the nation. However, with the right direction and commitment, Nigeria can rise again. Though the road ahead may be rough, together we can rebuild the Nigeria we all deserve”, he said.

He noted that the Minna meeting was part of a broader nationwide consultation strategy aimed at galvanizing support and building momentum ahead of the 2027 polls.

A statement issued by Jubril Umar Sanda, Director of News Media and ICT for the campaign said, “He is fully prepared for the journey ahead, ready to serve with integrity, courage, and a clear plan for progress.”

Earlier in the day, Al-Mustapha made a brief stop in Minna while en route to Mokwa, where he sympathized with residents affected by a recent flood disaster that displaced more than 200 people and caused extensive damage to homes and farmland.

The presidential hopeful stressed the urgent need for competent leadership, unity, and sustainable solutions to the country’s multifaceted challenges.

He said Nigeria’s future rests on the shoulders of leaders willing to act decisively in the face of adversity.

Meanwhile, SDP State Chairman, Alhaji Buhari Yakubu Yarima, has welcomed Al-Mustapha’s declaration, describing it as a turning point for the party.

“We are confident that with credible candidates and a clear vision, the SDP will be a force to reckon with in 2027”, Yarima stated.