A prosecution witness has told the Federal High Court in Abuja that more than 200 armed men wielding AK-47 rifles carried out the deadly June 13, 2025 attack on Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

The witness, Moses Paul, a team leader with the Intelligence Response Team of the Nigeria Police Force, testified during the ongoing terrorism trial of nine suspects accused of orchestrating the Yelwata massacre.

Over 200 Killed in Yelwata Attack

According to court proceedings, the Yelwata attack allegedly left more than 200 people dead and properties worth millions of naira destroyed.

The suspects, who were arraigned on 57 amended counts bordering on terrorism, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecution, led by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo, accused the defendants of participating in planning meetings held between May and June 2025 in Nasarawa State.

Fulani Chiefs Allegedly Funded Operation

Paul told the court that disgruntled Fulani chiefs allegedly sponsored and funded the armed assault.

He claimed the chiefs convened meetings to address what they described as unfair treatment of Fulani communities in Benue and Nasarawa States, including reported killings of cattle and kinsmen.

During investigations, the police arrested suspects in Kadarko, Ageregu, and other parts of Nasarawa State.

The first defendant, Haruna Abdullahi, was apprehended in Ageregu and reportedly confessed to attending strategy meetings before the attack.

The witness further revealed that the initial target was Daudu community, but the attackers diverted to Yelwata after encountering resistance.

Court Proceedings Continue

The court declined a bail application filed by defence counsel Ibrahim Angulu, who cited health concerns.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik adjourned the case for continuation of trial proceedings.

The Yelwata terrorism trial continues as security agencies intensify efforts to address rising insecurity in Benue State and surrounding regions.