A tragic incident has shaken the Nigerian Army community at Wawa Cantonment in Niger State, where a soldier reportedly killed his wife before taking his own life.
The soldier, identified as Lance Corporal Femi Akenleye of the 221 Battalion, and his wife were found dead in their apartment at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters, within the cantonment.
Confirming the incident in a statement, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 22 Armoured Brigade, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, said that an investigation was already underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
“The 22 Armoured Brigade, Nigerian Army, is aware of the unfortunate incident involving one of its personnel, Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, serving at 221 Battalion, Wawa Cantonment, who is suspected to have killed his wife before committing suicide,” the statement read.
According to preliminary findings, the soldier was on duty within the barracks when he reportedly sought permission from his superior officer to attend to personal matters. He later returned to his residence, where the incident is believed to have occurred.
Captain Nwankwo described the event as “tragic and deeply regrettable,” noting that it has left the Wawa Cantonment community in shock.
“The remains of the deceased have been preserved, while an in-depth investigation has commenced to ascertain the circumstances that led to the incident,” he added.
The statement further noted that the Nigerian Army commiserates with the bereaved family, colleagues, and friends of the deceased, praying for the peaceful repose of their souls.
Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, assured the public that the Army would ensure a thorough and transparent investigation, pledging that the findings would be made public once concluded.
“The Nigerian Army seeks the understanding and cooperation of the public and will take necessary measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents,” the statement concluded.
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