Nigeria was on the brink of collapse, says colonel accused of coup plot against Tinubu

Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, accused of plotting to overthrow President Tinubu’s government, said his actions stemmed from patriotism amid Nigeria’s “gradual decline” toward collapse, according to Punch Newspapers, citing Premium Times.

He cited economic hardship, poor military welfare, and struggles raising his children on his salary as motivating factors. Ma’aji said the group was still mobilising officers and had no fixed date for action, denying foreign involvement.

He claimed Timipre Silva contributed N400 million to the alleged plan. The colonel appealed for leniency, saying the experience had changed his mindset.