Nigeria coup suspect says patriotism drove alleged plot

Colonel Mohammed Ma'aji, the alleged ringleader of a failed 2025 coup attempt in Nigeria, told military investigators he acted out of “patriotism” and concern over the country's decline, Premium Times reported Monday.

Nigeria's military announced in January that it had arrested 36 officers accused of plotting to overthrow the government. A military tribunal was established in May to try the officers, including Ma'aji, who is 50.

Premium Times published remarks attributed to Ma'aji in an interview transcript. He was quoted as saying the alleged action was driven by a desire for “a prosperous nation and country that we all can be proud of”.

In the transcript, Ma'aji criticised government corruption, reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu since taking office in 2023, poor military pay and deterioration in the healthcare system.

Premium Times also reported that Ma'aji confirmed receiving financial support from former oil minister Timipre Sylva, who the article said is on the run and allegedly provided 400 million naira, or $294,000.

The military tribunal has not delivered its verdict.