A tragic domestic incident has claimed the life of a Nigerian Army officer, Lieutenant Samson Haruna, who died after sustaining severe burns allegedly inflicted by his wife at the Wellington Bassey Barracks in Ibagwa, Abak Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
According to multiple reports, the shocking event occurred on September 22, 2025, following a heated altercation between the couple. Haruna, who served as the Regimental Medical Officer (RMO) at the 6 Battalion, was reportedly attacked after the disagreement escalated beyond control.
Counter-insurgency analyst, Zagazola Makama, first drew public attention to the incident in a post on 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday. He revealed that preliminary investigations indicated that the officer’s wife doused him with petrol during the dispute before setting him ablaze.
“A source confirmed that the officer had an argument with his wife, which degenerated into violence, leading her to pour petrol on him and ignite the fire,” Makama stated.
Following the attack, colleagues and neighbours within the barracks reportedly rushed to the scene after hearing the officer’s cries for help. He was immediately taken to the Military Reference Section (MRS) in the barracks for emergency care before being transferred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) for further treatment.
Despite the combined efforts of military and civilian medical teams, Lt. Haruna succumbed to his injuries a few days later.
Security authorities have confirmed that the suspect, Mrs. Haruna, has been arrested and is currently in military custody as investigations continue to determine the motive and circumstances surrounding the incident.
A senior military source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the event as “deeply distressing,” noting that domestic violence has increasingly become a silent concern within military communities.
“The Nigerian Army will conduct a full inquiry into this case. Such incidents not only destroy families but also affect morale within the barracks,” the source said.
Lt. Haruna, described by colleagues as a dedicated and disciplined officer, was reportedly well-respected among his peers for his professionalism and medical expertise.
The Army is expected to release an official statement in the coming days as part of ongoing efforts to ensure justice and prevent similar tragedies within its ranks.
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