A Nigerian army officer has reportedly died after he was set on fire by his wife in yet another deadly case of domestic violence.
Lieutenant Samson Haruna, a medical doctor, succumbed to severe burns after his wife set him on fire at Wellington Bassey Barracks in Ibagwa, Ibom State, a security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, said.
So what happened?
On the fateful day, reportedly September 22, 2025, the Haruna had a heated argument with his wife, Mrs Samson Haruna.
“The officer had a heated argument with his wife, Mrs Retyit Obadiah Dalong Samson Haruna, which resulted in her dousing him with petrol and setting him on fire,” a source was quoted as saying.
Haruna was rushed to a the Battalion Medical Facility within the barracks and later transferred to University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, where he died while undergoing treatment on Tuesday, October 7.
“The officer sustained severe burns and was immediately stabilized at the Military Reference Section (MRS) in the barracks before being evacuated to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital for further management,” the source added.
Army condemns incident
In a statement on Tuesday, October 7, the Uyo State Army Public Relations Assistant Director Lawal Muhammad condemned the officer’s killing, emphathising with the family over the tragic death.
‘’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,” the statement read, as reported by Punch.
