Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, who is accused of involvement in an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has defended his actions, saying they were motivated by patriotism and concern over Nigeria’s worsening condition.
Ma’aji said economic hardship, poor governance and the declining welfare of Nigerians and military personnel influenced his concerns about the direction of the country.
He stated that Nigeria was gradually approaching a point of collapse and that he became increasingly worried about the situation.
The colonel, who spoke about the alleged plot, said his concerns were also heightened by the difficulties he faced in providing for his five children on his salary, as well as what he described as inadequate welfare for soldiers.
He particularly raised concerns about wounded military personnel receiving treatment at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna, alleging that some were not receiving adequate care.
Ma’aji said the alleged plan involved mobilising officers who shared his concerns but maintained that it had not reached the stage of execution before his arrest.
According to him, there was no fixed date for the proposed operation, as the group was still trying to mobilise more officers and secure resources.
He also denied foreign involvement in the alleged plot, while claiming that he personally financed much of the plan and that former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, contributed about N400m.
Ma’aji further called for the establishment of a formal channel through which military officers could raise concerns with the Chief of Army Staff without fear of victimisation.
He advocated improved remuneration and welfare packages for soldiers, better pension benefits, greater access to education and stronger measures against corruption.
The colonel also criticised the removal of the fuel subsidy, arguing that the policy should have been implemented gradually.
Following his arrest, Ma’aji appealed to the authorities for leniency, describing those involved as first offenders.
He said the experience had changed his perspective, insisting that the alleged plan was not intended to destabilise the country.
The alleged coup plot, which was uncovered in September 2025, reportedly led to the cancellation of the October 1 Independence Day parade and changes in the military hierarchy.
