Fulani Militants Face Terrorism Trial

In a rare court case, nine Fulani herdsmen are facing trial for their roles in the massacre of more than 200 Christians in Benue State during the month of June, 2025. Prosecutors filed a total of 57 charges against the accused individuals, and additional suspects are still being pursued by authorities.

The leader of the violent group, Ardo Lawal Mohammed Dono – along with the other eight offenders – pleaded "not guilty." Ardo has been accused of organizing and funding terrorism activities, plus recruiting complicit participants to join him. Similar charges relating to acts of violence and terrorism were brought against the remaining accused members of the group. Although the trial has experienced various delays, the presiding judge cautioned the defence against unnecessary stalling, stating that the matter is of "significant public interest." In the meanwhile, the alleged perpetrators have been remanded to custody for the duration of the trial.

All of the apprehended defendants are members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, an organization representing Fulani herders. While the group has been accused of financing attacks on Christian villages, its leaders continue to deny any involvement.

Violence against Christians – often involving militant Fulani herdsmen – has been a major concern for several years, particularly in northern Nigeria. The indiscriminate raids, village burnings, as well as targeted killings, have devastated entire communities and resulted in the displacement of countless families. Further information concerning the atrocities experienced by believers in Nigeria can be obtained by reviewing VOMC's previously published reports.

• Pray that God will impart wisdom and guidance to court officials as this trial proceeds, in hopes that the outcome will mark meaningful progress towards the cessation of violent activities perpetrated by militant groups across Nigeria.
• May the Lord provide protection, comfort and healing to our Nigerian brothers and sisters in Christ, who are not only suffering deep grief and loss in the aftermath of the attacks, but also living under the perpetual threat of further danger.
• Pray that international attention and pressure will help strengthen the pursuit of justice for the thousands of innocent Nigerian believers whose lives have been devastated by the violence.