Nine Arraigned Over Yelwata Killings, Face 57-Count Charge

Abuja – The Federal Government on Monday arraigned nine suspects in connection with the deadly attack on Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

The defendants appeared before Justice Joyce Abdul-Malik at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where prosecutors filed a 57-count charge against them.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), is leading the prosecution. Court proceedings were conducted with the aid of an interpreter as the charges were read and the defendants’ pleas were being taken.

In a statement issued earlier, the Office of the Attorney General said the government was determined to pursue the case to its logical conclusion, stressing that those involved in violent crimes would be held accountable.

Kamarudeen Ogundele, Special Assistant to the Attorney General, said the Tinubu administration remained committed to protecting lives and property as guaranteed by the constitution.

He noted that the prosecution followed what he described as a painstaking investigation and collaboration among security and government agencies.

Background of the Attack

The Yelwata attack occurred in June 2025 when gunmen invaded the community, killing several residents and displacing hundreds. The incident sparked outrage across the country, with protests and condemnation from both local and international observers.

Security agencies later announced the arrest of suspects linked to the violence, leading to the arraignment in Abuja.

One survivor, Msurshima Apeh, later recounted her ordeal before the United States Congress during a hearing by the House Subcommittee on Africa. She told lawmakers she witnessed the killing of her five children during the assault.

Following the violence, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited Benue State and directed security agencies to identify and arrest those responsible.

During a meeting with stakeholders in Makurdi, Tinubu expressed concern over delays in arrests and urged law enforcement to intensify efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Yelwata killings have added to the long history of violent attacks in parts of Benue State, leaving communities grieving and demanding stronger security protection.