Ma’aji was eventually arrested on September 29, 2025, after what he described as an elaborate operation by senior military authorities who allegedly exploited his desire for promotion to lure him into custody.
Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, one of the principal suspects standing trial over the alleged failed coup plot against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has told investigators that repeated denial of promotion to the rank of brigadier general pushed him towards plotting to overthrow the government.
According to statements made by the officer during interrogation, Ma’aji said he first began canvassing support for a military takeover in 2023 after becoming frustrated with what he described as the military hierarchy’s failure to address worsening insecurity and the poor welfare of serving and retired personnel.
The documents, obtained by Premium Times, indicate that the Niger State-born officer claimed his agitation began towards the end of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration after he failed to secure promotion despite believing he deserved advancement.
He also alleged that concerns about deteriorating conditions within the armed forces and dissatisfaction among officers contributed to the decision.
