THE Nigerian Army’s 2 Brigade in Akwa Ibom State has condemned the death of Lieutenant Samson Haruna, the Regimental Medical Officer of the 6 Battalion, who died after being set ablaze by his wife during a domestic dispute at the Wellington Bassey Barracks in Ibagwa.
The tragic incident, which occurred on September 22, 2025, reportedly began after a heated argument between the couple.
According to a statement by the Army’s Assistant Director of Public Relations, Lawal Muhammad, preliminary findings suggest that the disagreement escalated when Haruna’s wife, identified as Retyit Obadiah Dalong Haruna, allegedly set fire to items in their home, leading to the inferno that fatally injured her husband.
Lieutenant Haruna sustained severe burns and was initially treated at the Battalion’s medical facility before being transferred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, where he later died in the early hours of yesterday.
“The Nigerian Army strongly condemns this act of domestic violence, recognising the importance of peace and mutual respect within families,” the statement read.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of Lieutenant Haruna. The Army will continue to promote healthy relationships and a culture of respect and dialogue within homes and communities.”
The Army has urged the public to remain calm as military police continue their investigation into the matter.
The incident comes after another case in the state, where a man, Christopher Enobong Jimmy, was shot dead by a soldier in 2021 after offering him a lift — an event that had similarly sparked public outrage at the time.