Alleged Coup Plot: Army Colonel Says Failed Promotion Pushed Him to Act

Army Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, accused of leading a foiled coup plot against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, reportedly told investigators that repeated failures to secure promotion to brigadier general contributed to his actions. Documents cited by a Nigerian news outlet say Ma’aji began seeking support in 2023, citing insecurity, poor welfare for serving and retired personnel, inadequate accommodation and low morale within the military. He said he was previously questioned over claims that politicians wanted to use him to disrupt the 2023 elections, but was released after investigators found no evidence. Ma’aji said junior officers encouraged him to revive the alleged plan after he missed promotion again in 2024. He was arrested on 29 September 2025 after being invited to Niger Barracks for what he believed was a meeting about his promotion. He appealed for mercy and called for internal channels through which military personnel can raise grievances safely.

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