How gunmen diverted from Daudu to Yelwata after resistance – Witness tells court

A prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of nine suspects over the June 13, 2025 attack on Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State has told the Court that the assailants initially planned to strike Daudu community but later redirected their operation after encountering resistance.

The witness, Moses Paul, a team leader with the Intelligence Response Team of the Nigerian Police Force, gave the testimony while being led in evidence by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Rotimi Oyedepo.

Paul informed the Court that more than 200 armed men allegedly mobilised for the operation.

He said the attackers, armed with AK-47 rifles, were reportedly sponsored by some Fulani chiefs who convened meetings and raised funds to execute the assault.

According to him, investigations revealed that Daudu community was the original target. However, upon facing stiff resistance there, the gunmen reportedly abandoned the plan and moved towards Yelwata, where the attack was eventually carried out.

The witness stated that the assault on Yelwata resulted in the death of over 200 people and the destruction of properties valued at millions of naira.

He further told the Court that investigations led to the arrest of the suspects in various locations, including Kadarko and Ageregu in neighbouring Nasarawa State.

The first defendant, Haruna Abdullahi, was arrested in Ageregu.

Paul said Abdullahi allegedly confessed during interrogation to attending meetings with Fulani chiefs in Nasarawa, where grievances over alleged killings of cattle and kinsmen in Benue and Nasarawa States were discussed.

The witness added that funds were allegedly pooled during the meetings and armed men engaged for the operation.

Earlier, the Court declined an application by counsel to the first defendant seeking to challenge its jurisdiction and request bail.

The defence had also informed the Court that the first defendant suffered a stroke while in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik adjourned the matter to February 27 for continuation of trial.