A tragic incident has shaken the Wellington Bassey Barracks in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, where a Nigerian Army officer, Lt. Samson Haruna, lost his life after being set ablaze by his wife during a domestic dispute.

The incident occurred on September 22, 2025, and was reported by counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama on social media platform X. According to sources, Lt. Haruna, a medical doctor and Regimental Medical Officer (RMO) at the 6 Battalion, had a heated argument with his wife, Mrs. Samson Haruna, which escalated into violence.

Mrs. Haruna allegedly doused her husband with petrol and set him on fire, causing severe burns. Lt. Haruna was immediately rushed to the Military Reference Section (MRS) within the barracks for initial treatment before being transferred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital for intensive care. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries despite efforts by medical personnel to save his life.

Despite efforts by medical teams, Lt. Haruna succumbed to his injuries.

“The officer, however, succumbed to his injuries despite efforts by medical personnel to save his life,” the source added.

Security sources confirmed that Mrs Haruna has been arrested and is currently in custody. Investigations have commenced to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.