Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, accused of involvement in an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government, has told investigators that frustration over worsening conditions in Nigeria and poor welfare within the military contributed to his actions.
Ma’aji’s account, contained in fresh court records, said the alleged movement was driven by what he described as patriotism and a desire to see a better Nigeria, rather than personal ambition.
He cited insecurity, rising living costs, poor governance, inadequate military welfare, corruption, and declining living standards as some of the issues that fuelled the discussions.
“Everything we planned was borne out of patriotism, love of country, and the desire to have a prosperous Nigeria that we all can be proud of,” he said.
Ma’aji also linked his involvement to his failure to secure promotion to the rank of brigadier-general on two occasions, saying some colleagues encouraged him to revive the movement after his second setback.
According to him, the alleged plot remained at the stage of mobilization and discussions when security authorities intervened, and no specific date had been fixed for any action.
He denied the involvement of foreign collaborators, saying different individuals became involved at various stages, while some later withdrew or failed to provide promised resources.
Ma’aji said the initial discussions began during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari but were later revived.
He further complained about poor remuneration, inadequate healthcare and housing, pension challenges, and what he described as godfatherism in military postings and promotions.
He called for improved welfare packages for serving personnel and their families, better treatment of wounded soldiers, and stronger support for retired military personnel.
The colonel also criticized the sudden removal of fuel subsidy, corruption, and what he described as poor implementation of government budgets. He urged the Federal Government to invest savings from subsidy reforms in public transport and other programs that could reduce hardship.
Following his arrest and detention, Ma’aji said he had reconsidered his approach and recognized that grievances within the military could be addressed through lawful channels.
He appealed to the authorities to pardon him and others involved, saying they were first offenders and had contributed to national security operations.
“If God willing, the authority is kind enough to pardon us, we will never contemplate this course of action again in the future,” he said.
Ma’aji also proposed the creation of a formal channel through which military personnel could communicate concerns directly to the Chief of Army Staff without fear of victimization.
The alleged coup case is currently before a military court. Ma’aji has also challenged the jurisdiction of the Defence Headquarters Garrison General Court Martial hearing the case.
The Defence Headquarters has declined to comment on the latest revelations, saying the matter is before the court and any comment could be sub judice.
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