Soldier Kills Wife, Commits Suicide in Niger Barracks

A tragic incident at Wawa Cantonment in Niger State has thrown the military community and residents into mourning after a soldier allegedly killed his wife before taking his own life.

The Nigerian Army confirmed the development in a statement issued on Monday by its Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Stephen Nwachukwu.

According to the statement, the soldier, identified as Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, was serving with the 221 Battalion at the cantonment before the incident occurred on Saturday, October 11, 2025.

“The tragic incident, which occurred on 11 October 2025 at Wawa Cantonment, Niger State, has caused a tense atmosphere, leaving the barracks residents in shock as to the circumstances that could have led to such an unfortunate incident,” Nwachukwu said.

The Army spokesperson explained that the lifeless bodies of Lance Corporal Femi and his wife were discovered inside their apartment located at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters within the cantonment.

Preliminary findings, according to the statement, suggest that the soldier had been on duty earlier in the day and had requested permission from his superior to attend to “personal matters” before the tragic event occurred.

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“Preliminary investigation indicated that the soldier had been on duty at the time and sought permission from his superior to attend to personal matters before returning,” Nwachukwu added.

The Nigerian Army expressed deep regret over the incident, describing it as “painful and unfortunate.” It extended condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased couple.

“The NA deeply regrets this, while it commiserates with the family, colleagues, and friends of the deceased over the painful loss. The army also prays for the peaceful repose of their souls,” the statement read.

The bodies of the deceased have been preserved, and a comprehensive investigation has commenced to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Meanwhile, the Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, assured that the outcome of the investigation would be made public and that the Army would implement preventive measures to forestall similar occurrences in the future.

“Findings will be shared and further scrutinised, with measures implemented to prevent future occurrences,” Nwachukwu quoted the commander as saying.

Residents of Wawa Cantonment have been left in a state of grief and disbelief, with many describing the incident as one of the most disturbing in recent memory.

Security analysts say the Army’s decision to conduct a full investigation reflects the growing concern over mental health challenges and domestic stress among security personnel, urging the military to intensify psychological support programmes for its members.

The Nigerian Army has promised to make the findings of the probe public as it continues efforts to ensure the welfare and emotional stability of its personnel across all formations.