ABUJA — The Federal High Court in Abuja has heard detailed testimony about the deadly Yelwata attack in Benue State.
According to the prosecution, more than 100 armed men stormed the community on June 13, 2025. They allegedly killed over 150 residents and burned several houses.
Meanwhile, nine defendants now face trial for terrorism-related offences linked to the massacre.
Court Arraigns Nine Defendants
The Federal Government charged nine men with a 57-count terrorism charge.
They include:
Ardo Lawal Mohammed Dono
Ardo Muhammadu Saidu
Alhaji Haruna Abdullahi
Yakubu Adamu
Musa Mohammed
Abubakar Adamu
Shaibu Ibrahim
Saleh Mohammed
Bako Jibrin
Earlier, the court remanded them at Kuje Correctional Centre after they pleaded not guilty.
Prosecutors filed the charges under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Prosecution Presents First Witness
At the resumed hearing, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik heard testimony from Mr. Moses Paul. He serves as a Chief Superintendent of Police with the Intelligence Response Unit.
According to him, he was in Apa, Benue State, handling a kidnapping case when news of the attack broke.
Immediately, authorities deployed him and his team to Yelwata. Subsequently, investigators began gathering evidence on June 14.
Alleged Planning Meetings in Nasarawa
Furthermore, the prosecution alleged that the suspects held several meetings in Nasarawa State between May and June 2025.
The witness claimed that some Fulani chiefs organized the meetings. During those gatherings, participants allegedly raised funds to attack Benue communities.
He testified that one defendant admitted attending the meetings. In addition, the suspect allegedly contributed ₦300,000 to fund the operation. Another participant reportedly added ₦200,000.
According to investigators, one meeting took place at the residence of Ardo Lawal Dono. Later, another meeting allegedly occurred at the home of Ardo Muhammadu Saidu.
How the Attack Unfolded
The witness told the court that more than 100 attackers carried AK-47 rifles.
Initially, they targeted Dawudu community. However, they diverted to Yelwata after they met resistance.
At the time, Yelwata had become a refuge for displaced villagers. As a result, many vulnerable people fell victim to the assault.
“The attackers numbered over 100 and carried AK-47 rifles,” the witness said.
He added that the gunmen attacked more than 200 people. Many of them had sought safety in the town.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
Investigators later arrested the suspects in Kadarko, Ageregu, and Lafia. These areas lie along the Benue–Nasarawa border.
The witness said his team spent nearly one month in the area. During that period, they conducted interviews and gathered intelligence.
Meanwhile, authorities continue to investigate the case. They expect additional arrests.
Court Adjourns Hearing
After hearing the testimony, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter until Friday.
The trial will continue under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Related Reports
👉 Nine Victims of Barkin Ladi Attack Laid to Rest in Plateau
👉 Senegal Condemns Jail Sentence Imposed on Football Fans in Morocco
Explore More
Leave a Reply