Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, accused of leading an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration, says his actions were motivated by patriotism and concern over Nigeria’s worsening condition, rather than personal ambition.
Ma’aji said economic hardship, poor governance and declining welfare among Nigerians and military personnel influenced his decision to mobilise officers who shared his concerns.
According to TheCable, which cited an interview reported by Premium Times, Ma’aji said he was driven by his love for Nigeria and the military.
He said his concerns became more personal as he struggled to provide for his five children on his salary.
Ma’aji also raised concerns about the welfare of soldiers, particularly wounded personnel. He alleged that some injured soldiers receiving treatment at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna were not getting adequate care.
He said these concerns convinced him that urgent action was needed to change the country’s direction.
“The summary of all this is that this action was driven by the desire to have a prosperous nation and country that we all can be proud of,” Ma’aji said.
The colonel said the alleged plan had not reached the execution stage when he was arrested. According to him, the group was still mobilising officers and soldiers who shared similar views, while further meetings were expected to take place.
“There was no D-Day,” he said, adding that the group was waiting for resources and additional personnel before moving forward.
Ma’aji also claimed that he personally financed much of the alleged operation, while Timipre Silva contributed about N400 million. He denied foreign involvement and said no date had been fixed for the operation.
He further said dissatisfaction within the military, alongside unsuccessful promotion attempts, contributed to the revival of the movement.
The colonel called for the establishment of a formal channel through which military officers could raise concerns with Chief of Army Staff Waidi Shaibu without fear of victimisation.
He also advocated better pay, welfare packages, pension benefits and educational support for military personnel, while calling for stronger measures against corruption.
Ma’aji criticised the removal of the fuel subsidy, arguing that the policy should have been phased out gradually.
Following his arrest, Ma’aji appealed for leniency and pardon, describing himself and the other accused persons as first offenders. He said his interaction with the panel had changed his perspective.
The alleged coup plot, uncovered in September 2025, reportedly led to the cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day parade and changes in the military hierarchy, including the removal of Christopher Musa as Chief of Army Staff.
