Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, a Nigerian Army officer linked to a reported plot against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has publicly addressed the allegations. In a statement, Ma’aji expressed remorse for his actions and requested official leniency, claiming his motivations were rooted in love for his country rather than personal political gain.
Ma’aji identified widespread discontent within the military regarding the nation’s current state. He pointed to issues such as inadequate welfare for soldiers, poor governance, and the high cost of living as primary drivers for the discussions among officers. He emphasized that the group never reached an operational stage, nor were there foreign entities involved, noting that the initiative lacked a specific timeline for execution.
The Colonel admitted his frustrations were compounded by personal setbacks, specifically being passed over for promotion to brigadier-general twice. Despite this, he insisted the proposed movement was meant to serve as a catalyst for national reform. He highlighted the hardships faced by military families and wounded veterans, suggesting that improved remuneration and transparent communication channels with leadership could address systemic morale issues.
Following his arrest, Ma’aji stated that his perspective has evolved. He now advocates for peaceful, lawful avenues to express grievances and urged the government to prioritize anti-corruption measures and social infrastructure investments. He concluded by pleading for a second chance, affirming his dedication to Nigeria and expressing a desire to assist in building a more prosperous nation through legitimate channels.
