Accused Colonel Says Alleged Coup Plot Was Driven by Patriotism

Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, accused of involvement in an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has said his actions were driven by patriotism and concern over Nigeria’s worsening economic and security conditions. Ma’aji said he was worried about hardship among Nigerians and poor welfare for military personnel, but maintained that the alleged plan had not reached the execution stage before his arrest.