By BASHIR AJADI, ABUJA

A Nigerian Army Colonel, Mohammed Ma’aji, standing trial over an alleged plot to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu, has told investigators that his involvement was driven by patriotism and growing concerns about the state of the country. His position was contained in court documents that revealed details of how a group of military officers and civilians allegedly conceived, suspended and later revived plans to unseat the government.

Reacting to the development, the Defence Headquarters declined to comment on the matter, citing the ongoing court proceedings. Director of Defence Information, Major-General Samaila Uba, said any official response would amount to commenting on a matter that is already before the court.

In his statement, Ma’aji apologised for his role in the alleged plot and appealed for leniency, insisting that his actions were not motivated by personal ambition. He said concerns over poor governance, worsening insecurity, economic hardship and declining living standards had fuelled discussions among some military personnel. According to him, many officers feared the country was heading in the wrong direction and felt compelled to seek solutions.

The colonel also highlighted welfare challenges within the Armed Forces, citing inadequate salaries, poor treatment of wounded soldiers, limited healthcare coverage and insufficient support for serving personnel and their families. He argued that poor welfare and casualty management could undermine the morale of troops engaged in combat operations across the country.

Ma’aji further disclosed that the movement was still at the mobilisation and consultation stage when security agencies intervened and that no date had been fixed for any action. He denied the involvement of foreign collaborators and said several individuals who initially expressed support later withdrew. He also acknowledged that his failure to secure promotion to the rank of brigadier-general on two occasions contributed to his frustration, adding that some colleagues encouraged him to revive the movement after the setbacks.

Reflecting on his arrest and detention, the officer said the experience had changed his perspective and convinced him that grievances could be addressed through lawful channels within the military. He urged authorities to establish a formal mechanism through which officers and soldiers could communicate concerns directly to the Chief of Army Staff without fear of victimisation.

Ma’aji also called for improved salaries, housing, healthcare, pension packages and family support for military personnel, while criticising alleged godfatherism in postings and promotions. He expressed concern over corruption, rising education costs, and the impact of fuel subsidy removal on ordinary Nigerians, urging government to invest savings from subsidy reforms in mass transportation and social infrastructure. He appealed for a pardon for all those involved, describing them as first-time offenders who acted out of concern for Nigeria and pledged never to contemplate such actions again.