Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji states patriotism motivated alleged coup plot against Tinubu administration

Ma’aji cited economic hardship, poor governance, and declining welfare among Nigerians and military personnel as his motivations. He expressed worry about providing for his five children on his salary and the inability of many to afford good education. The colonel also raised concerns about the welfare of soldiers, particularly those wounded in operations, alleging inadequate care at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna.

He claimed the alleged plan involved mobilizing like-minded officers but had not reached the operational stage before his arrest. Ma’aji stated he personally financed much of the alleged plan, with Timipre Silva contributing N400 million, and denied foreign involvement or a fixed date for the operation. He attributed the revival of the alleged movement to widespread military dissatisfaction and his unsuccessful promotion attempts.

Ma’aji called for a formal channel for officers to raise concerns with the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, without fear of victimisation, and recommended improved remuneration, welfare, pension benefits, education access, and anti-corruption measures. He also criticized the fuel subsidy removal. Following his arrest, Ma’aji appealed for leniency, stating the experience changed his mindset and tha