The State Security Service (SSS) has arraigned nine suspects in connection with the recent deadly attack in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue, and parts of Plateau. The suspects, named in six separate charges, appeared before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja, where they pleaded not guilty to the allegations.
The charges, filed on August 28, include unlawful possession and dealing in firearms, assisting in terrorism activities, and complicity in the deadly attack. According to the SSS, the suspects conspired to carry out the attacks on Yelwata, which resulted in the loss of lives, injuries, and displacement of hundreds of people. The offense is punishable under Section 12 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.
The SSS counsel, Calistus Eze, presented the charges against the suspects, including Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi, who are accused of carrying out attacks against the people of Abinsi and Yelwata villages on June 13. The court also heard charges against other suspects, including Ashuwa, Alede, and Halima Umar, as well as Manjo and Tali.
Justice Nwite ordered that the suspects be remanded in SSS custody and granted access to their lawyers. The matter involving Ashuwa, Alede, and Halima Umar was adjourned until October 2 for trial, while the charge involving Manjo and Tali was adjourned until October 17 for review and trial. The trial of Antu and Oloche is also scheduled for October 17.
In a related development, the SSS filed a fresh five-count charge against suspected gunrunner Huzaifa Ahamad Haruna, also known as Huzaifa Dogo, who was allegedly arrested with seven M16 assault rifles. The charges highlight the ongoing efforts of the SSS to address the rising insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the affected regions.
The arraignment of the suspects and the filing of new charges demonstrate the determination of the authorities to bring those responsible for the violence to justice. As the trials progress, it is expected that more information will come to light about the circumstances surrounding the attacks and the alleged involvement of the suspects. The outcome of the cases will be closely watched, given the significance of the attacks and the need to address the underlying security challenges in the region.
