Tragedy has struck within the Nigerian Army following the shocking death of Lieutenant Samson Haruna, a Regimental Medical Officer attached to the 6 Battalion, 2 Brigade, who was burnt to death by his wife during a domestic altercation at their official residence inside Wellington Bassey Barracks, Ibagwa, Akwa Ibom State.
According to an official statement dated October 7th, 2025, and signed by Captain Lawal Bala Muhammad, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 2 Brigade, Uyo, the incident occurred on September 22nd, 2025, after what began as a heated marital disagreement escalated into a deadly confrontation.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the quarrel, reportedly triggered by a lingering family crisis, turned violent when Mrs. Retyit Obadiah Dalong Haruna, in a fit of rage, allegedly set ablaze household properties, sparking an inferno that engulfed her husband.
Lieutenant Haruna was quickly rescued and taken to the Battalion Medical Facility, where doctors battled to stabilize him.
He was later referred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) for intensive care.
Unfortunately, despite medical intervention, the officer succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of Tuesday, October 7th, 2025.
Deeply pained by the incident, the Nigerian Army, through the 2 Brigade Command, condemned the act in strong terms, describing it as a tragic reflection of the dangers of domestic violence and a reminder of the importance of peaceful family coexistence.
“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 statement read.
The Army further assured that military police have commenced a full investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure justice is served.
While calling for calm, the statement emphasized the Nigerian Army’s commitment to advocating for healthy family relationships, curbing domestic abuse, and fostering dialogue, tolerance, and respect within both military and civilian environments.
Lieutenant Haruna’s death has once again raised alarm over the growing scourge of domestic violence in Nigeria, a social menace that spares no profession, not even the disciplined ranks of the armed forces.
Experts and human rights advocates have since renewed calls for psychological support systems, anger management programs, and family counseling within the military to prevent such avoidable tragedies in the future.