Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, the former Chief Security Officer to the late Head of State, General Sani Abacha, has spoken out following the Supreme Court’s dismissal of his trial in the murder of Kudirat Abiola, saying the ruling confirms his innocence and that Nigerians should put resentment aside.
Reflecting on the 28-year legal process that included the Lagos High Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court, Al-Mustapha said he holds no grudges against anyone involved.
In a statement issued on Friday, Al-Mustapha thanked his family, Nigerians, and the judiciary for supporting him during the 28 years of the trial.
Reacting to the Supreme Court judgment delivered on January 22, which ended the case against him, he thanked the Federal Government of Nigeria for respecting the independence of the judiciary.
Titled “Alhamdulillah, Alhamdulillah, All praises be unto Allah SWT, the Creator of Heavens and Earth”, the statement recalled how his ordeal began in 1998, when he and others were arrested and charged under what he described as fabricated accusations.
He said, “The 28 years that followed were difficult. Yet, by the grace of Allah, the Supreme Court has brought a just conclusion.”
He added, “As a Nigerian, I am determined to put the past behind me and move forward without resentment.
The Supreme Court has vindicated me and proved my innocence. My prayer is for the strength to forgive those responsible for this ordeal, and I have forgiven them all.”
He also expressed his readiness to contribute to Nigeria’s development.
Al-Mustapha thanked the Supreme Court justices for their judgment and the Federal Government for allowing the judiciary to operate independently.
He also acknowledged Nigerians, his family, legal team, and friends who supported him during the trial.
He remembered those who lost their lives or were injured covering his case, calling them heroes.
He added that with a message of unity: “I urge all Nigerians to put aside hatred and work together to build the country for future generations.
Once again, I thank the judiciary, the Supreme Court, the Federal Government, and all Nigerians. Together, we can continue to lift Nigeria higher. God bless you all.”
