Fresh details have emerged from military investigations identifying Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji as the central figure behind the failed coup attempt allegedly planned against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
According to security sources, Col. Ma’aji—a senior infantry officer—was not only a key strategist in the plot but also allegedly financed major aspects of the coordinated plan.
Arrests and Initial Denials
Military authorities began picking up senior officers suspected of involvement in late September 2025, with Col. Ma’aji among the first to be arrested. By early October, at least 16 officers had been taken into custody.
At the time, defence officials denied any coup attempt, stating the officers were being questioned for “indiscipline and breach of service regulations.” However, rising tension and national concern later forced a broader admission.
The situation led President Tinubu to sack several service chiefs, retaining only Olufemi Oluyede and Emmanuel Undiandeye.
Oluyede, then Chief of Army Staff, was elevated to Chief of Defence Staff.
Undiandeye continued as Chief of Defence Intelligence.
In a dramatic twist, former CDS Christopher Musa, who was removed earlier, was recalled and appointed Minister of Defence, replacing Mohammed Badaru, who stepped down citing health issues.
Two months after the arrests, the military formally acknowledged the coup plot and confirmed that the detained officers would face trial.
How Investigators Traced Ma’aji’s Role
Security insiders said investigators found Col. Ma’aji at the centre of operational planning, logistics coordination, and financial transactions linked to the attempted coup.
One source disclosed that Ma’aji once made strategic moves to secure a posting to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA)—a step now believed to have been part of a broader plan.
Another insider revealed that financial trails linked him to various co-conspirators.
“He was responsible for transferring funds to co-plotters,” the source said.
One of the transactions under investigation reportedly connects him to Timi Sylva, former governor of Bayelsa State. The two are believed to have built a long-standing relationship during Ma’aji’s years in the Niger Delta.
Investigators later searched Sylva’s Abuja residence, prompting speculation about possible civilian involvement.
His spokesperson, Julius Bokoru, issued a rebuttal, insisting the former governor had no connection to the plot and remains a committed supporter of President Tinubu.
Sources also described Ma’aji as emotionally detached and uncooperative since his arrest, showing little remorse during questioning.
Who Is Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji?
Col. Ma’aji, service number N/10668, was born on 1 March 1976. A Nupe native from Edati LGA in Niger State, he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy on 18 August 1995 and was commissioned on 16 September 2000 as part of the 47 Regular Course.
He gained significant operational experience through multiple assignments in the Niger Delta, which eventually shaped his influence and network.
Key highlights of his military career include:
Participation in Operation Crocodile Smile II (2017)
Service at Depot Nigerian Army
Commanding roles in Operation Delta Safe
Several sensitive operational deployments
He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 2013 and Colonel in 2017. At the time of his arrest, he was the Commanding Officer, 19 Battalion, Okitipupa, Ondo State.
What Happens Next
The military maintains that all implicated officers, including Ma’aji, will face trial under military law. Investigations are still ongoing, focusing on financial links, civilian collaborators, and other officers who may have been part of the plan.
Officials assure that the matter remains under close review to prevent future threats to national stability.
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