Soldier allegedly kills his Wife comits suicide as probe begins

Soldier allegedly kills his Wife comits suicide as probe begins

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the deaths of Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi and his wife in what appears to be a tragic case of murder-suicide at the Wawa Cantonment in Niger State.

The incident reportedly took place on October 11 at the 221 Battalion residential quarters, where the couple lived.

In an official statement, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, said initial findings point to a troubling sequence of events.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the soldier, who was on duty within the cantonment, sought permission from his superior to attend to some personal issues but failed to return to his post,” Nwankwo explained.

When he did not report back to duty, fellow soldiers were sent to locate him. Their search led them to Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters, where they discovered the lifeless bodies of the soldier and his wife.

“Their remains have been preserved, while an in-depth investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic event,” he added.

Describing the development as both “sad and regrettable,” the Army expressed sympathy to the couple’s loved ones and colleagues.

The Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, assured the public that a full investigation is already in motion.

“The Army expresses deep regret over this unfortunate incident. We appeal for public understanding and cooperation as we conduct a full investigation to prevent future occurrences,” he said.

The military has pledged transparency in handling the matter and reiterated its commitment to the welfare and mental well-being of its personnel.