Army officer dies after wife sets him ablaze

A Nigerian Army officer, Lieutenant Samson Haruna, has died from severe burns after his wife allegedly set him on fire during a domestic dispute at Wellington Bassey Barracks, Ibagwa, in Abak Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

According to reports obtained by Zagazola Makama, the incident occurred on September 22, 2025.

Sources said the officer, who also served as a medical doctor and Regimental Medical Officer (RMO) with the 6 Battalion, had a heated argument with his wife, Mrs. Samson Haruna, which escalated violently. During the altercation, she allegedly poured petrol on him and set him ablaze.

Lt. Haruna sustained severe burns and was initially treated at the Military Reference Section (MRS) within the barracks before being transferred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital for further medical care.

Despite intensive efforts by medical personnel, the officer succumbed to his injuries.

Military sources confirmed that the suspect has been arrested and taken into custody, while an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is currently underway.