The Nigerian Army 2 Brigade in Akwa Ibom State has condemned the killing of Lieutenant Samson Haruna, the Regimental Medical Officer of 6 Battalion, who passed on after his wife allegedly set him ablaze during a domestic dispute at the Willington Bassey Barracks

The tragic incident followed a similar one involving one Christopher Enobong Jimmy, a 42-year-old man, who was shot dead by a soldier after he offered him a lift to his destination.

The incident, which occurred along the Akwa Ibom area of the East-West Road from Port Harcourt, generated heated reactions from members of the public who condemned the act

According to reports, Jimmy, a manager with a clearing and forwarding company at Onne Ports in Rivers State, was driving from his base to his village on Sunday, May 23, 2021, and saw a soldier, dressed in full military uniform and armed with AK- 47 rifle, who later flagged him down for a lift to Ette Junction in Ikot Abasi -the same destination of Jimmy.

However, the help turned out to be many evil returns as the army killed his benefactor in cold blood.

PUNCH Metro learnt that the incident involving Haruna and his wife occurred on September 22, 2025.

In a statement by its Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lawal Muhammad, in Uyo on Tuesday, the Nigerian Army condemned the officer’s killing, while also commiserating with the family over the tragic death.

According to the statement, the deceased succumbed to severe burns inflicted in a domestic incident with his wife, Mrs Retyit Obadiah Dalong Samson Haruna, 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 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. (PUNCH)

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