FG Moves to Arraign Suspects in Yelwata Benue Killings Today: Justice to Send Strong Signal Against Impunity

By Tgnews Reporter

The Federal Government will today arraign several suspects strongly linked to the deadly killings in Yelwata community, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The suspects are set to appear before Justice Joyce Abdul-Malik (also referred to as Abdulmalik in some reports) to face charges related to the violent attacks that claimed numerous lives and displaced hundreds in the region.

In a press release issued on Sunday, February 1, 2026, Kamarudeen Ogundele, Senior Assistant to the President on Communication and Publicity in the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, confirmed the development.

He described the arraignment as the culmination of a “painstaking investigation and collaboration by government agencies.”

The statement emphasized that the trial aims to deliver justice and serve as a strong deterrent to perpetrators acting under any guise.

“The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to the protection of lives and property of all as enshrined in the constitution,” Ogundele stated, assuring Nigerians that justice will be ensured in the matter.

The Yelwata attacks, which drew widespread condemnation, prompted swift action from President Tinubu, who directed security chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to apprehend those responsible.

Following the directive, the police announced the arrest of over two dozen suspects (reports vary between 26 and 28) believed to be masterminds or participants in the massacre.

The move underscores the Tinubu administration’s resolve to tackle insecurity in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where farmer-herder clashes and banditry have long plagued communities. Authorities have vowed that the judicial process will hold the accused accountable, reinforcing efforts to restore peace and uphold the rule of law.