Nigerian colonel claims patriotism drove alleged coup plot against Tinubu

A Nigerian Army Colonel, Mohammed Ma’aji, has revealed that his alleged involvement in a plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu's government stemmed from patriotism and deep frustration over Nigeria's deteriorating state. Court records detail how investigators believe a group of military officers and civilians developed, suspended, and revived plans to unseat the administration. Ma’aji, while apologizing and seeking leniency, insisted his actions were motivated by a desire for a prosperous Nigeria, not personal ambition. He articulated concerns among some military personnel regarding poor governance, pervasive insecurity, inadequate welfare, and declining living standards, fearing the country was nearing collapse. "Every time I look at how I’m struggling to raise five children with my meagre salary, I get worried. Looking at every aspect of life in Nigeria, there is no hope for the common man, and we are left to defend ourselves," Ma’aji stated in court records. He specifically highlighted the plight of wounded soldiers and the challenges faced by serving personnel and their families due to insufficient welfare provisions. Ma’aji claimed the movement was in the mobilization and discussion phase, with no specific action date set, and denied foreign collaboration. He also suggested that frustrations over his twice-failed promotion to brigadier-general, which some colleagues encouraged him to revive the movement after, fueled the alleged plot. The initial planning, he said, began during the previous administration of Muhammadu Buhari.

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What has happened has a very long history, and it is driven by patriotism and I love the job and country.