Army Officer Dies After Wife Douses Him with Fuel, Set Him Ablaze in Akwa Ibom
Tragedy struck at the Wellington Bassey Barracks in Ibagwa, Abak Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, as a Nigerian Army officer, Lieutenant Samson Haruna, reportedly died after being set ablaze by his wife during a domestic altercation.
The incident, which occurred on September 22, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the military community and the wider public. Counter-insurgency expert and security analyst, Zagazola Makama, confirmed the development in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday.
According to reports, the couple had engaged in a heated argument that escalated into violence.
During the confrontation, the wife allegedly poured petrol on the officer and set him on fire inside their apartment within the barracks.
Lt. Haruna sustained severe burns and was immediately rushed to the Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Uyo, where he battled for his life for several days before succumbing to his injuries.
Security sources revealed that the suspect was promptly arrested by military police and is currently in custody as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Nigerian Army is yet to issue an official statement, but military sources described the development as “unfortunate and deeply painful,” emphasizing the need for restraint and peaceful conflict resolution within military families.
Community members and fellow officers at the barracks expressed shock over the incident, describing the late Haruna as a disciplined and dedicated officer who had served in several internal security operations.
Meanwhile, human rights advocates have called for a thorough investigation, stressing that justice must be served while also urging authorities to provide psychological and counseling support to military families to help prevent similar domestic tragedies.
The remains of Lt. Haruna have reportedly been deposited at the military morgue in Uyo, pending further directives from the Army authorities and the deceased’s family.
