An officer in the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Samson Haruna, has reportedly died from injuries sustained in a fire allegedly started by his wife.
The tragic incident occurred on September 22 at the officer’s residence in Wellington Bassey Barracks, Ibagwa, Abak Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
According to reports, Haruna suffered severe burns after his wife, Retyit Haruna, allegedly set fire to their household items during a domestic altercation.
In a statement on Tuesday, Lawal Muhammad, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 2 Brigade Akwa Ibom, confirmed that the officer was initially taken to the battalion’s medical facility, where he was stabilised before being transferred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH).
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the tragic incident occurred after a heated argument between the couple, reportedly stemming from family crisis, which escalated when Mrs Haruna allegedly set ablaze properties in the house and the officer was caught by the inferno,” the statement reads.
“Doctor Haruna sustained severe burns, but was initially stabilized at the Battalion Medical Facility, and later transferred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital for further treatment, where he unfortunately passed away early hours of Tuesday, 7 October 2025.
“The Nigerian Army strongly condemns this act of domestic violence, recognizing the imperative of peaceful coexistence and respect within families. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of Lieutenant Haruna.
“The Nigerian Army will continue to advocate for healthy relationships, addressing domestic violence, and fostering a culture of respect and dialogue within families and communities.
“The Nigerian Army is calling for all parties to remain calm while awaiting outcome of military police investigation.”
Lt. Haruna, who was a medical doctor attached to a military facility, graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) on September 28, 2024, and got married in April 2025.
Sources confirmed that his wife has been arrested in connection with the incident.