ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, accused of involvement in an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s government, has appealed for forgiveness, saying frustration over Nigeria’s worsening conditions and concerns about military welfare contributed to his actions.
Ma’aji, in a statement made available on Monday, said the alleged plot was driven by what he described as patriotism and a desire to see Nigeria become a better country, rather than personal ambition.
He, however, admitted that his failure to secure promotion to the rank of brigadier-general on two occasions contributed to his frustration, saying some colleagues later encouraged him to revive discussions around the alleged movement.
The colonel said concerns over insecurity, poor governance, declining living standards and inadequate welfare for military personnel had created widespread frustration among some officers.
He said the situation had become so disturbing that he feared the country was heading towards collapse.
“What has happened has a very long history, and it is driven by patriotism, and I love the job and country,” Ma’aji said.
Explaining his personal frustrations, he said, “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.”
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Ma’aji maintained that the alleged plot was not motivated by a desire for 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.
He disclosed that the alleged movement had not progressed beyond mobilisation and discussions when security authorities intervened.
According to him, no specific date had been agreed for any action, while he denied the involvement of foreign collaborators.
The colonel said different individuals became involved at various stages, with some expressing concern about the state of the country and others eventually withdrawing or failing to provide resources they had promised.
Ma’aji also raised concerns about the treatment of soldiers wounded during military operations, arguing that inadequate welfare for serving personnel, injured soldiers and their families could undermine the morale of the Armed Forces.
He called for improved remuneration and welfare packages for military personnel, including better healthcare, housing, pensions and family support.
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He also urged the authorities to establish a formal channel through which soldiers could communicate grievances directly to the Chief of Army Staff without fear of victimisation.
The colonel criticised what he described as godfatherism and inequality in military postings and career progression.
According to him, some officers had spent years participating in operations, while others had little or no operational exposure.
On the broader economy, Ma’aji expressed concern over the rising cost of living, access to education, corruption and the impact of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians.
He urged the Federal Government to channel savings from subsidy reforms into measures capable of easing hardship, including mass transportation and other social infrastructure.
He also called for stronger action against corruption, arguing that perceived impunity among public officials could weaken the confidence and morale of security personnel.
On his arrest and detention, Ma’aji said the experience had changed his outlook and made him realise that there were alternative ways of expressing grievances within the military.
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“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.
The colonel insisted that the alleged movement was never intended to destabilise Nigeria.
“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 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. Many of the officers have participated in some operations in the North-East. I am happy nobody has been hurt,” Ma’aji said.
He described his detention as “challenging and revealing”, saying it had given him time to reconsider how grievances should be expressed.
Ma’aji maintained that he and the other officers involved had no other country to call their own and urged the authorities to consider their contributions to national security.
He requested for an opportunity to meet with the relevant authorities, apologise and commit to pursuing lawful and peaceful channels for addressing grievances.