Fulani chiefs funded Yelwata attack – Witness alleges
Witness Testifies in Trial Over Yelwata Attack
A key witness for the prosecution in the trial of nine defendants linked to the June 13, 2025, attack on Yelwata in Benue State testified that over 200 armed men executed the invasion under the direction of certain Fulani chiefs.
Moses Paul, an officer with the Intelligence Response Team of the Nigerian Police Force, provided his account during examination by Director of Public Prosecutions Rotimi Oyedepo. He stated that the assailants were allegedly organized and financed by disgruntled Fulani chiefs who convened multiple meetings to strategize and raise funds for the attack.
Paul recounted that he was alerted to the incident while in Apa, Benue State, prompting his team’s deployment for investigation. Upon arriving in Yelwata, they initiated an operation that led to the arrest of the accused individuals in different locations, including Kadarko, Ageregu, and other areas within Nasarawa State.
He indicated that the first suspect apprehended was Haruna Abdullahi, who was arrested in Ageregu. During questioning, Abdullahi purportedly admitted to participating in meetings with Fulani chiefs at the residence of an individual identified as Ardo Lawal. Paul noted that these meetings addressed grievances over perceived injustices against the Fulani community in both Nasarawa and Benue States, including the killing of livestock and community members.
Paul further alleged that Abdullahi confessed that the chiefs had gathered financial contributions and enlisted armed men to execute the assault. The attackers initially planned to target Daudu community but reportedly redirected their efforts towards Yelwata after encountering resistance. The raid, according to Paul, resulted in more than 200 fatalities and extensive property damage, valued in millions of Naira.
Earlier in the trial, the court dismissed a motion from the defense counsel of the first defendant, which sought to challenge the court’s jurisdiction and requested bail. The defense informed the court that the first defendant had suffered a stroke while in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik adjourned the case until February 27 for the continuation of hearings.
