A Nigerian Army officer, Lieutenant Samson Haruna, has died after being allegedly set ablaze by his wife, Retyit Dalong, following a domestic dispute at Wellington Bassey Barracks in Abak Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Haruna, who served as the regimental medical officer at the 6 Battalion in Ibagwa, was said to have sustained severe burns after his wife poured petrol on him while he was asleep on September 22, 2025.
The deceased, a native of Benue State, reportedly married his wife in April 2025 in Jos, Plateau State, barely five months before the tragic incident. Sources said the couple had been having recurring disagreements over alleged infidelity, which escalated into a confrontation that night.
After the attack, the officer was initially treated at a clinic within the barracks but was later transferred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), where he succumbed to his injuries.
Confirming the incident, the Nigerian Army, through the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Major Lawal Muhammed, described the act as a tragic case of domestic violence and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
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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.
“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.
Meanwhile, military police have commenced a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death, while the wife has reportedly been taken into custody.