By Society Assistant Editor
Ninolowo Gbamboye
A deep sense of grief and disbelief has enveloped Wellington Bassey Barracks in Ibagwa, Akwa Ibom State, following the tragic death of a young and promising military doctor, Lieutenant Dr. Samson Haruna, who was allegedly set ablaze by his wife during a heated domestic quarrel.
The shocking incident, which occurred on September 22, 2025, has left the military community and the public stunned. According to reports from within the barracks, the altercation between the couple began after Mrs. Haruna, a nurse, accused her husband of infidelity. The argument reportedly spiraled out of control, culminating in an unthinkable act of violence.
Eyewitnesses said the suspect allegedly poured petrol on her husband and set him on fire during the confrontation. Dr. Haruna suffered severe burns and was rushed to the barracks’ medical facility before being transferred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. Despite desperate efforts by doctors to save him, he succumbed to his injuries a few days later.
Lt. Dr. Haruna had only been commissioned into the Nigerian Army in 2024 and married his wife in April 2025 — a union that lasted barely five months before ending in tragedy.
Military and police sources have confirmed that Mrs. Haruna has been arrested and is currently in custody, pending further investigation and arraignment.
The devastating event has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian Armed Forces, where colleagues described the deceased as a brilliant, disciplined, and compassionate medical officer who served with integrity and passion.
Social media has since been flooded with tributes and reactions, as many Nigerians expressed heartbreak and anger over the senseless killing.
One user wrote:
“The enemy didn’t take his life on the battlefield but in his own home, where he should have found peace and safety.”
Another commented:
“Before she is your wife, she’s someone’s daughter. Before he is your husband, he’s someone’s son. If love turns toxic, walk away — don’t destroy a life.”
As investigations continue, the Nigerian Army is expected to issue an official statement in the coming days. For now, the tragic death of Lt. Dr. Samson Haruna serves as a grim reminder of how domestic violence can destroy lives even in the most disciplined institutions.
