Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has ordered the remand of nine suspects arrested in connection with the Yelwata killings in Benue State at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending trial.
The suspects were arraigned by the Federal Government on a 57-count charge led by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN). They pleaded not guilty to the charges, which were read through an interpreter.
The prosecution requested an accelerated hearing and indicated that eight witnesses are ready to testify. While counsel to the first, eighth, and ninth defendants made an oral bail application, the court ordered that all nine suspects remain in custody. The case was adjourned to February 26 and 27 for trial.
Earlier, the Office of the Attorney General assured Nigerians that justice would be served, stressing the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property following what it described as a painstaking investigation involving multiple agencies.
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The arrests stem from the June 2025 attack on Yelwata community in Guma LGA of Benue State, where gunmen killed scores of residents and displaced hundreds, sparking protests and widespread condemnation.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier visited Benue State and directed security agencies to ensure those responsible are apprehended.
The Yelwata incident is part of a series of violent attacks recorded in the state in recent times.