Soldier kills wife, commits suicide inside Niger Barracks

A soldier attached to the 221 Battalion, Wawa Cantonment, in Niger State, has reportedly taken his own life after allegedly killing his wife inside their residence within the barracks.

The deceased soldier, identified as Lance Corporal Femi, and his wife were both found dead in their apartment located at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters of the Wawa Cantonment.

Confirming the tragic incident, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, said the case is currently under investigation.

According to Nwankwo, preliminary findings revealed that the soldier had been on duty within the barracks but requested permission from his superior to attend to personal matters before the unfortunate event occurred.

“The 22 Armoured Brigade, Nigerian Army (NA), is aware of the news in respect of its personnel, Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, serving at 221 Battalion, Wawa Cantonment, who is suspected of having killed his wife and committed suicide. The tragic incident that occurred on October 11, 2025, at Wawa Cantonment, Niger State, has caused a tense atmosphere, leaving the barracks residents in shock as to the circumstances that could have led to such an unfortunate incident,” the statement read in part.

The army spokesperson said the remains of both victims have been preserved, and a detailed investigation has begun to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

“The NA deeply regrets this, while it commiserates with the family, colleagues, and friends of the deceased over the painful loss. The army also prays for the peaceful repose of their souls,” the statement added.

Captain Nwankwo further noted that the Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, has assured the public that the investigation will be thorough, and its findings will be made public.

He appealed for calm and understanding from the public as the Nigerian Army continues its inquiry, adding that measures will be implemented to prevent such incidents in the future.