A soldier serving with the 221 Battalion at Wawa Cantonment in Niger State has allegedly taken his own life after reportedly killing his wife inside their barracks residence.
The soldier, identified as Lance Corporal Femi, and his wife were discovered dead in their home at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters, Wawa Cantonment.
Confirming the development in a statement, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, said the matter is currently under investigation.
Nwankwo noted that initial findings revealed the soldier was on duty within the barracks but requested permission from his superior to briefly attend to personal matters before returning.
“The 22 Armoured Brigade, Nigerian Army (NA), is aware of the news in respect of its personnel, Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, serving at 221 Battalion, Wawa Cantonment, who is suspected of having killed his wife and committed suicide.
“The tragic incident that occurred on October 11, 2025, at Wawa Cantonment, Niger State, has caused a tense atmosphere, leaving the barracks residents in shock as to the circumstances that could have led to such an unfortunate incident,” the statement partly read.
The statement added that the bodies have been secured, and a detailed investigation is underway to determine what led to the incident.
“The NA deeply regrets this, while it commiserates with the family, colleagues, and friends of the deceased over the painful loss. The army also prays for the peaceful repose of their souls.
“The Commander 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, assures the general public that the circumstances that led to the sad incident will be thoroughly investigated, and the outcome relayed to the general public accordingly.
The statement further noted that the NA expects continued cooperation from the public, assuring that the findings will not only be disclosed but also carefully reviewed to prevent similar incidents in the future.