Former Chief Security Officer to late Head of State, General Sani Abacha, Hamza Al-Mustapha, has called for a deep reset of Nigeria’s political culture, warning that the country cannot continue to recycle what he described as deception, betrayal and failed promises.
Speaking at a Social Democratic Party (SDP) gathering, Al-Mustapha commended the emergence of new party leadership, describing it as a step toward rebuilding trust and strengthening internal unity within the party.
He, however, used the platform to deliver a broader reflection on Nigeria’s political system, saying the country has repeatedly been misled by leaders who present themselves as agents of change but abandon those promises once they gain power.
He said many political actors who once campaigned on reform have ended up becoming the very opposite of what they promised Nigerians.
Al-Mustapha described this pattern as one of the core reasons for growing public frustration and declining trust in governance, adding that citizens must become more vigilant and politically aware.
He said the SDP, despite its internal challenges, remains one of the more structured political platforms in the country and could emerge stronger if it maintains discipline and unity.
According to him, no political party in Nigeria is currently without internal strain, but the ability to withstand pressure and rebuild from within will determine future strength.
He called on young Nigerians to take a more active role in shaping the country’s political direction, warning them not to be swayed by empty promises or political propaganda.
He stressed that Nigeria’s problems are not beyond repair, but fixing them will require honesty, discipline, and collective responsibility from both leaders and citizens.
Al-Mustapha urged party members to remain focused and united, saying the current political moment presents an opportunity for renewal if properly managed.
He concluded by expressing cautious optimism that with consistency and commitment, the SDP could grow into a stronger political force in the country’s democratic space.
