The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of one of its personnel, Lance Corporal Akinleye Femi, and his wife, in what is suspected to be a murder-suicide at the Wawa Cantonment, New Bussa, Niger State.
The incident occurred on Saturday, October 11, 2025, within the residential quarters of the 221 Battalion under the 22 Armoured Brigade.
According to military sources, the soldier was on duty earlier that day before requesting permission from his superiors to attend to personal matters at home.
Hours later, both he and his wife were found lifeless inside their apartment at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters.
Residents of the barracks described the incident as shocking and heartbreaking, saying it was difficult to comprehend what could have triggered such a tragedy.
A soldier’s wife, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said it was devastating to see two young lives end so suddenly.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, described the development as tragic and regrettable, adding that a full investigation had been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The statement read, “The Nigerian Army deeply regrets this unfortunate occurrence.
The command extends its condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased and prays for the peaceful repose of their souls.”
The Commander, 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, also assured that the investigation would be thorough and transparent, stressing that the findings would be made public.
He said the Army was committed to conducting a transparent investigation and would take proactive measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
The remains of the couple have been deposited at a military medical facility pending the outcome of the investigation.
The Army further urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with investigators, reaffirming its commitment to the discipline, welfare, and mental well-being of its personnel. in Niger Barracks
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of one of its personnel, Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, and his wife, in what is suspected to be a murder-suicide at the Wawa Cantonment, New Bussa, Niger State.
The incident occurred on Saturday, October 11, 2025, within the residential quarters of the 221 Battalion under the 22 Armoured Brigade.
According to military sources, the soldier was on duty earlier that day before requesting permission from his superiors to attend to personal matters at home.
Hours later, both he and his wife were found lifeless inside their apartment at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters.
Residents of the barracks described the incident as shocking and heartbreaking, saying it was difficult to comprehend what could have triggered such a tragedy.
A soldier’s wife, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said it was devastating to see two young lives end so suddenly.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, described the development as tragic and regrettable, adding that a full investigation had been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The statement read, “The Nigerian Army deeply regrets this unfortunate occurrence. The command extends its condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased and prays for the peaceful repose of their souls.”
The Commander, 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, also assured that the investigation would be thorough and transparent, stressing that the findings would be made public.
He said the Army was committed to conducting a transparent investigation and would take proactive measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
The remains of the couple have been deposited at a military medical facility pending the outcome of the investigation.
The Army further urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with investigators, reaffirming its commitment to the discipline, welfare, and mental well-being of its personnel.
