# Nigeria alleged coup plot investigation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nigeria-alleged-coup-plot-investigation
> Updated: 2026-08-10T12:06:16.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Nigerian authorities have disrupted an alleged coup plot aimed at overthrowing President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The investigation led to the arrest of Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, who was reportedly lured to a meeting at Niger Barracks under the pretense of discussing his promotion. Investigators have collected extensive evidence, including bank records and over 7,400 pages of documents, as part of the proceedings involving the General Court Martial and the Federal High Court.

Ma’aji has detailed the motivations behind the alleged scheme, stating that discussions regarding military intervention began in 2023 during the final stages of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure. He cited concerns over corruption, nepotism, national insecurity, and economic hardships—such as fuel subsidy removal, currency reforms, and rising electricity tariffs—as primary drivers. Ma’aji claimed the group possessed a “genuine desire for positive change” and noted that the plot was previously hindered by funding and logistical challenges. He alleged that he personally financed much of the early stages, with other officers contributing funds, including one major who reportedly provided 1 million Naira.

Ma’aji also highlighted concerns regarding the welfare of military personnel, specifically alleging inadequate medical care for wounded soldiers at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna. While the Federal Government has filed charges against six individuals in civilian court, Ma’aji and more than 30 serving military personnel are facing a military court-martial.

## Claims

- The alleged coup plot was motivated by patriotism and a desire for positive national change rather than personal ambition. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- Discussions regarding military intervention began in 2023 during the end of Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- Economic grievances included fuel subsidy removal, foreign exchange reforms, taxation, and electricity tariffs. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The alleged plot was previously shelved due to shortages in funding, logistics, and manpower. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- An Army major reportedly contributed 1 million Naira toward the early stages of the project. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Ma’aji cited inadequate care for wounded soldiers at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna. (single source)
- The Federal Government filed 13 charges against six individuals accused of participating in the coup plot. (single source)
- Ma’aji and over 30 serving military personnel are facing a separate military court-martial. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-10: Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji reveals motives behind alleged Nigerian coup plot

Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji claims an alleged coup plot against President Tinubu was driven by patriotism and economic hardship, citing insecurity and corruption as key motivations for military discontent.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nigeria-colonel-maaji-reveals-motives-behind-alleged-coup-plot

### 2026-07-30: Nigeria arrests alleged coup leader Mohammed Ma’aji over promotion dispute

Nigeria's Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, accused of leading a failed coup against President Bola Tinubu, was arrested after being baited with a promotion meeting, investigators say.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nigeria-arrests-alleged-coup-leader-mohammed-maaji-over-promotion-dispute

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Cite as: Nigeria alleged coup plot investigation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nigeria-alleged-coup-plot-investigation