Prosecutors on Monday filed 57 terrorism-related charges against nine men accused of carrying out a deadly attack on Yelwata community in Benue State in June 2025, an assault that authorities say left about 150 people dead.
Court documents show the suspects are charged with offences including acts of terrorism, mass murder, conspiracy, and unlawful possession of firearms, under Nigeria’s Terrorism (Prevention) Act and other criminal statutes. The accused were arraigned before a federal court and ordered remanded in custody pending the commencement of trial.
According to prosecutors, the attackers stormed Yelwata in a coordinated operation, opening fire on residents and setting homes ablaze during a night-time raid that lasted several hours. Most of the victims were civilians, including women and children, while many others were injured or displaced.
Security officials said the suspects allegedly played different roles in the attack, ranging from direct participation in the killings to providing logistical support and intelligence on the community.
The defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The Federal Government said the prosecution reflects its determination to hold perpetrators of mass violence accountable.
“This case sends a clear message that crimes of this magnitude will not go unpunished,” a senior official at the Ministry of Justice said, adding that investigations are ongoing and additional suspects may still be arrested.
Human rights groups welcomed the charges but urged authorities to ensure a transparent and timely trial, noting that previous cases involving mass killings have often suffered delays or collapsed due to poor prosecution.
Survivors of the attack, many of whom remain displaced months later, have continued to call for justice, improved security, and support to rebuild their community.
The Yelwata massacre is among the deadliest incidents in Nigeria’s central region in recent years, highlighting persistent security challenges linked to armed groups and communal violence. The case has been adjourned to a later date for trial to begin.
