‘Extend amnesty to Al Mustapha, others’

By AbdulSalam Muhammad
Kano — The family of detained Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, former Chief Security Officer to late General Sani Abacha, yesterday, pleaded with President Umar Musa Yar’Adua to extend amnesty to Al Mustapha and two others who have been standing trial  for the past nine years for alleged attempted murder.

Spokesman of the family, Hadi Al Mustapha, told newsmen in Kano that his brother and his compatriots are ‘political prisoners’, noting that the long drawn litigation that has gone on for  years is a clear pointer to it.

He explained that the long absence of the former CSO from home has disorganised the entire family which culminated in the death of his father and the deteriorating health of his mother.

“We plead with President Yar’Adua to revisit the case of Al Mustapha and his compatriots and consider them for amnesty in view of their stabilising factor in the family,” Hadi explained adding that their presence at home will restore the stability of their respective families.

He also enjoined well meaning Nigerians to join them in prayers over the fate that befell them in the spirit of reconciliation, and new beginning, stressing that such a step will go a long way to heal their wounds.