Court Presents DSS Evidence in Ongoing Ethnic Violence Trial
A Federal High Court in Abuja has admitted a report from the Department of State Services (DSS) detailing allegations that certain leaders within the Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State were stockpiling grenades and ammunition for intended retaliatory attacks against Fulani herdsmen. This significant development comes amid ongoing court proceedings targeting individuals linked to a surge of ethnic conflict in the region.
Indictments and Terrorism Charges
Previously, on March 31, several individuals were indicted, including Aldo Lawal Mohammed Dono, Aldo Muhammadu Saidu, Alhaji Haruna Abdullahi, and Yakubu Adamu. These individuals are among nine suspected Fulani militiamen facing a total of 57 charges related to terrorism and the alleged massacre of over 100 individuals in Yerwata, Guma Local Government Area.
Admission of Physical Evidence
In addition to the DSS report, the court has also accepted various forms of physical evidence, including a grenade, a hidden bullet, and an audiovisual recording of an interrogation involving one of the accused.
Charges Against Agatu Youth Leader
The suspected Agatu youth leader, Silas Oroche, now faces six counts related to the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. A DSS official, serving as the prosecution’s first witness, testified that Oroche was apprehended on August 2, 2025, in Ogbashi, Agatu Local Government Area, in possession of 18 grenades and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
Confessions and Allegations of Violence
The testimony presented revealed that Oroche was subsequently transferred to the agency’s national headquarters in Abuja for further investigation. A witness, referred to as XX, stated that Oroche confessed to purchasing ammunition from an individual known as “Chocho” for over N2 million. The defendant allegedly requested to document his confession, unable to write it himself.
Contention Over Extrajudicial Statements
During the courtroom playback of an interrogative video, Oroche spoke about the history of violence against the Agatu community by Fulani herdsmen. In this video, he emphasized that tensions have escalated since 2013, the result of numerous assaults on agricultural lands. He claimed various meetings aimed at conflict resolution had taken place, involving government representatives and traditional authorities.
Preparing for Retaliation and Ongoing Tensions
In the video, Oroche disclosed that the ongoing violence has fostered discontent among the Agatu people due to repeated attacks coupled with insufficient governmental intervention. He claimed he was leading efforts to fund ammunition purchases in anticipation of impending Fulani aggression. Although he acknowledged storing ammunition at his residence, he stated his intent to acquire a firearm prior to his arrest.
Defense Challenges and Court Proceedings
Ending the video session, the prosecution formally introduced Oroche’s extrajudicial statement as evidence. However, defense attorney Noah Imoni contested its admissibility, asserting it was not made voluntarily. In response, the prosecution requested an internal hearing to assess this claim. The trial judge subsequently mandated an in-trial hearing and postponed any decisions regarding bail modifications. The court has been adjourned, with a new date set for July 8 to continue trial proceedings.
