Ex-Sylva security aide, Col. Ma’aji, named key suspect in alleged plot to undermine democracy

Ex-Sylva security aide, Col. Ma’aji, named key suspect in alleged plot to undermine democracy

Fresh developments have emerged in the ongoing investigation into an alleged plot to destabilize Nigeria’s democratic institutions, with Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji identified as a central figure in the probe.

Ma’aji, a senior military officer and former security adviser to ex-Bayelsa State Governor and former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, is being investigated for his alleged role in coordinating and financing the purported coup attempt.

Security sources confirmed that operatives recently searched Sylva’s residences in Abuja as part of the investigation. However, Sylva’s current whereabouts remain unknown, fueling speculation about his possible involvement. In response, Sylva’s Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Julius Bokoru, dismissed the allegations, describing his principal as “an unrepentant and thoroughbred democrat” who remains a staunch supporter of President Bola Tinubu.

Ma’aji, said to be closely associated with Sylva, had coordinated security operations for the former governor during the December 5, 2015 gubernatorial election in Bayelsa State. Sylva, then the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, lost to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Seriake Dickson.

Investigators are working to determine whether Ma’aji masterminded the alleged coup plot. He is accused of recruiting junior officers and providing financial and logistical support, raising concerns that he may have received backing from politically connected individuals.

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Military sources revealed that Ma’aji has so far refused to cooperate with the special investigative panel, maintaining silence on the allegations. However, junior officers have reportedly made “significant statements” that could aid the investigation.

Forensic analysis has been conducted on Ma’aji and his wife, with their Abuja residence thoroughly searched. Authorities have reportedly uncovered extensive financial records and details of multiple landed properties linked to the couple.

Profile: Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji

Born in 1976 to Nupe parents in Niger State, Ma’aji is a graduate of Regular Course 47 of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 2000 and rose to the rank of colonel in 2017 after completing the Policy, Strategy and Leadership Course at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State.

Ma’aji has served in various capacities across the Niger Delta, including as Commanding Officer of the 19 Battalion in Okitipupa, Ondo State, and later in Koko, Warri North LGA, Delta State. In January 2021, he was appointed Commanding Officer of Operation Delta Safe following a transfer from the Nigerian Army Depot in Zaria.

The investigation continues as authorities work to unravel the full scope of the alleged plot and the individuals involved.

Ex-Sylva security aide, Col. Ma’aji, named key suspect in alleged plot to undermine democracy