Nigerian Army Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, accused of involvement in an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government, has appealed to the authorities for forgiveness, saying his actions were driven by patriotism and frustration over the worsening conditions in Nigeria.
Ma’aji made the disclosure in a statement made available on Monday, where he apologised for his involvement in the alleged plot and insisted that he was not motivated by personal ambition.
According to him, concerns over poor governance, insecurity, inadequate welfare for military personnel and the rising cost of living contributed to the discussions that eventually led to the alleged plot.
He said he became increasingly worried about the condition of ordinary Nigerians and the difficulties faced by military personnel who were expected to defend the country despite their own struggles.
“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,” Ma’aji said.
The colonel maintained that his actions were motivated by what he described as a genuine desire for a better Nigeria rather than an attempt to achieve personal political power.
“This has nothing to do with any ambition or personal goals. It is purely out of the desire for a prosperous country that works for everyone,” he said.
Why Ma’aji Said He Became Frustrated
Ma’aji said military personnel had also been affected by inadequate welfare, particularly soldiers who sustained injuries during operations and the challenges faced by their families.
He called for better remuneration, healthcare, housing, pensions and other welfare packages for members of the Armed Forces.
He also advocated the creation of a formal channel through which military personnel could communicate their grievances directly to the Chief of Army Staff without fear of victimisation.
According to him, poor welfare and perceived inequality in postings and career progression could negatively affect the morale of officers and soldiers.
Ma’aji also disclosed that his failure to secure promotion to the rank of brigadier-general on two occasions contributed to his frustration. He said some colleagues encouraged him to revive the movement after his second unsuccessful attempt.
However, he said his arrest and subsequent detention had given him an opportunity to reconsider his approach and understand that grievances could be expressed through lawful channels.
“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 Denies Foreign Involvement
The colonel also denied claims of foreign collaboration, explaining that different individuals became involved in the discussions at various stages.
He said the alleged movement was still at the stage of mobilisation and discussions when security authorities intervened, adding that no specific date had been agreed for any action.
Ma’aji insisted that the alleged plot was never intended to destabilise the country but was driven by what he described as concern over Nigeria’s direction.
“Everything we planned was born out of patriotism, love of country, and the desire to have a prosperous Nigeria that we all can be proud of,” he said.
He also expressed concern over the impact of the high cost of living, corruption, education challenges and the removal of fuel subsidy on ordinary Nigerians.
The colonel urged the government to channel resources saved from subsidy reforms into measures that would reduce hardship, including mass transportation and other social infrastructure.
He further called for stronger action against corruption, arguing that perceived impunity among public officials could affect the confidence and morale of security personnel.
Colonel Appeals for Pardon
Ma’aji appealed to the authorities to consider the circumstances surrounding the alleged plot and pardon those involved, describing them as first offenders.
“We are pleading for a pardon and a chance to amend our ways,” he said.
He added that many of the officers had served in security operations in the North-East and expressed relief that nobody was injured during the alleged plot.
Ma’aji described his detention as challenging but also revealing, saying it had allowed him to reflect on his actions and reconsider how grievances should be addressed.
He maintained that he and the other officers involved had no other country to call home and appealed for an opportunity to meet with the relevant authorities, apologise and commit themselves to pursuing lawful and peaceful ways of expressing concerns.
Source: Statement by Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji.
