The Nigerian Army has launched an investigation into the mysterious death of a soldier and his wife at the Wawa Military Cantonment in Niger State.
The tragic incident, which occurred on October 11, has thrown the barracks community into deep mourning.
According to reports, the soldier, identified as Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi of the 221 Battalion, allegedly killed his wife before taking his own life inside their apartment located at Block 15, Room 24 of the Corporals and Below Quarters. Residents were left in shock as news of the couple’s death spread through the barracks.
Confirming the development, the spokesman for the 22 Armoured Brigade, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, said preliminary findings showed that the deceased soldier had been on duty within the cantonment and was granted permission by his superior to attend to personal matters before the incident occurred.
Nwankwo explained that the remains of the couple have been preserved, while the Army has commenced a thorough investigation to uncover the cause of the tragedy. He said, “The Nigerian Army deeply regrets this unfortunate incident and sympathises with the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased. We assure the public that a full investigation is underway and the findings will be made public.”
He added that the Army remains committed to maintaining discipline and safeguarding the well-being of its personnel. “Measures will be strengthened to prevent such occurrences in the future,” he stated.
Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, also assured Nigerians that the probe would be comprehensive and transparent, adding that the outcome would be communicated to the public in due course.