The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of Lieutenant Samson Haruna, who passed away on October 6, 2025, from injuries sustained in an incident involving his wife on September 22, 2025.

Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters 2 Brigade, Akwa Ibom, Captain Lawal Bala Muhammad, said in a statement yesterday that the officer suffered severe burns during the incident at his residence.

“Following the event, Lt. Haruna was immediately evacuated to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), where he received extensive medical treatment. Despite the concerted efforts of the medical team, he sadly passed away while under care. The Nigerian Army expresses its deepest condolences to the family, colleagues, and friends of the deceased officer and prays for the repose of his soul,” he said.

The Army added that an investigation was launched immediately after the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding it. It assured the public that the outcome of the investigation would be made public upon conclusion, reaffirming its commitment to professionalism, discipline, and accountability.

Meanwhile, the wife of the late officer has spoken out following her husband’s death from severe burns allegedly sustained during a domestic dispute.

In an audio message circulating on social media, Mrs. Haruna insisted that the fire incident which led to her husband’s death was a tragic accident and not deliberate.

Lt. Haruna, who served as a medical doctor and Regimental Medical Officer (RMO) with the 6 Battalion, died at the Wellington Bassey Barracks in Ibagwa, Abak Local Council of Akwa Ibom State.

Reports indicate that the couple had a heated argument that allegedly escalated when Mrs Haruna poured petrol inside their apartment. The substance later ignited, engulfing the officer in flames.

He was initially treated at the Military Reference Section within the barracks before being transferred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

In the audio clip, Mrs. Haruna claimed her husband accidentally kicked a gallon of fuel during their altercation, causing it to spill. She alleged that he had earlier threatened to set her ablaze if her parents did not come to take her home but maintained that the fire outbreak was unintentional. She also accused the late officer of subjecting her to repeated domestic abuse, claiming that one of the assaults led to a miscarriage.

According to her, while on his hospital bed, Lt. Haruna allegedly asked her to visit him and pleaded with the authorities to drop the case, admitting that the incident was accidental. Mrs. Haruna, who remains in police custody, said she has been deeply traumatised by the event and is cooperating with investigators.