Nigerian Army Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji has said his alleged involvement in a plan to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was motivated by concerns about Nigeria’s deteriorating condition rather than personal political ambition.
Ma’aji, who has been accused of playing a central role in the alleged coup plot, said he was driven by what he described as patriotism, frustration over worsening living conditions and concerns about the welfare of members of the Armed Forces.
In a statement reported on Monday, the colonel appealed for leniency, saying his actions were motivated by his desire for a better Nigeria.
He cited insecurity, poor welfare for military personnel, declining living standards and the wider economic difficulties confronting Nigerians as some of the issues that influenced his thinking.
Ma’aji also said the alleged plan was still at the mobilisation and discussion stage when security authorities intervened, stressing that no specific date had been fixed for the execution of any action.
The colonel further denied the involvement of foreign collaborators.
However, reports surrounding the alleged plot have previously linked discussions to possible sources of funding. A defendant standing trial in connection with the alleged coup plot reportedly told the court that Ma’aji had asked him to approach FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for funds to remove Tinubu. Wike has separately denied seeking any role as director-general of Tinubu’s 2027 campaign.
Ma’aji also reportedly connected his frustrations to his failure to secure promotion to the rank of brigadier-general on two occasions.
He said the alleged movement was motivated by concerns about the direction of the country and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, rather than an attempt to pursue personal political power.
The colonel has since appealed to the authorities to consider the circumstances that allegedly led to the plan and show leniency to those involved.
He also called for improved welfare, healthcare, housing, pensions and family support for military personnel, arguing that the government needs to address the conditions affecting members of the Armed Forces.
Ma’aji’s comments come amid an ongoing court case and investigations into the alleged plot to overthrow the Tinubu administration. His account represents his stated explanation and should not be taken as an independent confirmation of the allegations against him.