Army begins investigation into brutal murder of officer by wife, sues for calm

The Nigerian Army, 2 Brigade, Akwa Ibom State, says it has begun investigations into the brutal killing of its officer, Lieutenant Samson Haruna, the Regimental Medical Officer of 6 Battalion by his wife, Retyit Samson Haruna, a nurse.

This was revealed in a statement by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lawal Muhammad, in Uyo, on Tuesday night.

He said the army, while condemning the gruesome murder of the officer, commiserated with the family of the deceased and called for calm as investigation begins.

According to the statement, the deceased succumbed to severe burns inflicted in a domestic incident by the wife at their residence in Wellington Bassey Barracks, Ibagwa, Akwa Ibom State, on September 22, 2025.

It stated that preliminary investigation revealed that the tragic incident occurred after a heated argument between the couple, reportedly stemming from a family crisis, which escalated when Mrs Haruna allegedly set ablaze properties in the house, and the officer was caught by the inferno.

The statement further stated that Haruna sustained severe burns, but was initially stabilised 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.

The statement read, ‘’The Nigerian Army strongly condemns this act of domestic violence, recognising 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 healthy relationships, address domestic violence, and foster a culture of respect and dialogue within families and communities.

‘’The Nigerian Army is calling for all parties to remain calm while awaiting the outcome of the military police investigation.”

It was gathered that the couple was barely 5 months in the marriage.