Nigerian Army Breaks Silence After Newlywed Wife Allegedly Burns Officer Husband Alive

In a tragedy that has shocked many across Nigeria, the Nigerian Army has officially responded following the death of Lieutenant Samson Haruna, who reportedly succumbed to severe burns sustained in a fire incident allegedly involving his wife.
The Guardian Nigeria

The Army’s Statement & Reaction

On October 8, 2025, the Nigerian Army’s 2 Brigade Headquarters, via Captain Lawal Muhammad (Assistant Director, Army Public Relations), issued a public statement condemning the act and offering condolences to the deceased officer’s family.

In the statement, the Army described the incident as an “unfortunate” domestic event, asserted its stance against violence, and pledged transparency and accountability through investigation.
n Army strongly condemns this act of domestic violence, recognising the imperative of peaceful coexistence and respect within families,” the statement read.
Google ( ai.Dotifi.com AI )

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of Lieutenant Haruna.”

Google ( ai.Dotifi.com AI )

The Army also urged calm among the public and emphasized that a military police investigation had been launched to determine the exact circumstances of the fire.

What the Reports Say So Far
Timeline & Medical Treatment

The alleged fire incident reportedly occurred on September 22, 2025, at Lieutenant Haruna’s residence in Wellington Bassey Barracks, Ibagwa, Abak Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

Haruna was first taken to the battalion’s medical facility, then transferred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) for further medical care.

Despite intensive medical efforts, he died on October 6, 2025 from complications due to the burns sustained.

The deceased officer’s wife, Retyit Obadiah Dalong (also referred to as Mrs. Rhety Haruna in some reports), has allegedly claimed the fire was accidental, stating that in the course of a dispute her husband kicked over a container of fuel during their altercation, spilling it, which then ignited.

She also contends that Haruna had previously threatened to “set her ablaze” if her family did not take her home — a claim that, if verified, would further complicate the narrative.
The Guardian Nigeria
Google ( ai.Dotifi.com AI )

The wife, in an audio recording circulating on social media, denied intent and insisted the fire was unintentional.
The Guardian Nigeria

She additionally alleged that she had been subjected to domestic abuse by Haruna, claiming one altercation resulted in a miscarriage.
The Guardian Nigeria
Google ( ai.Dotifi.com AI )

Official & Community Reactions

The Nigerian Army has publicly condemned the act and expressed sorrow over the loss of one of its officers.
The Guardian Nigeria

Premium Times Nigeria

The Army reiterated its commitment to professional conduct, transparency, and discipline within its ranks.

Some media commentators have drawn attention to the prevalence of domestic violence in Nigeria and the need for stronger institutional protections, especially for women caught in abusive relationships.

Public reactions have ranged from shock and condemnation to calls for the Army to prosecute fairly and publicly disclose findings.

Key Issues & Questions Unresolved

While the Army has issued statements and launched an inquiry, many essential questions remain unanswered:

Causation and intent — Did the fire result from an accidental ignition, or was it a deliberate act?

Responsibility & accountability — Will Mrs. Haruna face charges? Under what laws or within what military or civilian tribunals?

Domestic violence allegations — Are there records, witnesses, or medical documentation to corroborate claims of abuse or miscarriage?

Transparency of the investigation — Will the findings of the military police be made public, and will justice be both seen and done?

Support systems within military families — What structures exist (or should be strengthened) to prevent escalation of disputes among military personnel and their spouses?

Conclusion & Outlook

The Nigerian Army’s public statement marks an important step: it acknowledges both the tragedy and the necessity of accountability. But it is only a step. The gravity of the allegations demands a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation. The resolution of this case will be closely watched—not just by those connected, but by Nigerians concerned with violence, justice, and institutional trust.