Retired Major Hamza Al-Mustapha has announced his serious intention to contest in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential elections, marking a renewed commitment after previous unsuccessful bids in 2019 and 2023. Speaking in an interview with the BBC Hausa service, the former Chief Security Officer to late Head of State, General Sani Abacha, said: “God willing, I only tested it, but this time I’m serious about running.”
Al-Mustapha emphasized the need for credible elections, alleging that past outcomes were often manipulated rather than genuinely counted. He revealed that discussions are already underway with international observers to ensure closer monitoring of the electoral process. “We have discussed with foreign countries, asking them to closely monitor Nigeria, especially regarding the elections, because election results are usually written,” he stated.
Rejecting the idea of joining political alliances that clash with his values, Al-Mustapha said he would not participate in any coalition that might compromise his integrity. “If their ideology is different from ours, then I don’t want to be part of something shameful that would bring dishonor to the country with my involvement,” he asserted.
When asked about the possibility of aligning with opposition figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Al-Mustapha dismissed the idea outright: “There is no possibility of our paths crossing politically, so there’s no need for that question.”
