Tragedy In The Barracks: Nigerian Soldier Shoots Wife Dead, Turns Gun On Himself

The Nigerian Army has launched an investigation into a tragic incident in which a soldier allegedly murdered his wife before taking his own life.

In a statement released on Monday by Captain Stephen Nwankwo, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, the soldier involved was identified as Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, serving with the 221 Battalion, Wawa Cantonment in Niger State.

According to the Army, the unfortunate event occurred on October 11, 2025, when Lance Corporal Femi and his wife were found dead in their apartment at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters, Wawa Cantonment.

The statement explained that preliminary investigations revealed the soldier had earlier sought permission from his superior officer to attend to personal matters before returning to duty. However, both he and his wife were later discovered lifeless in their home, leaving residents of the barracks in shock.

“The 22 Armoured Brigade, Nigerian Army, is aware of the incident involving one of its personnel, Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, who is suspected to have killed his wife and then committed suicide,” the statement read.

“The tragic event, which occurred on 11 October 2025, has created a tense atmosphere within Wawa Cantonment as residents struggle to comprehend what led to such a heartbreaking situation.”

The Army added that the remains of the deceased have been preserved while a thorough investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

“The Nigerian Army deeply regrets this unfortunate incident and commiserates with the families, colleagues, and friends of the deceased. We pray for the peaceful repose of their souls,” the statement continued.

Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, assured the public that the matter would be investigated in depth, and the findings made public.

He also appealed for the understanding and cooperation of the general public as the Army works to ensure transparency and prevent similar incidents in the future.