The Nigerian Army has confirmed that one of its soldiers, Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, allegedly killed his wife before taking his own life in Niger State.
According to statement released by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, Capt. Stephen Nwankwo, the tragic incident occurred on October 11 at the Corporals and Below Quarters in Wawa Cantonment.
The news left residents of the barracks and nearby communities in deep shock.
Capt. Nwankwo revealed that preliminary investigations showed the soldier was on active duty when he requested permission from his superior.
However, his lifeless body and that of his wife were later discovered inside their residence.
He added that the corpses had been preserved as part of ongoing investigations to determine the real cause and circumstances behind the tragedy.
“The Nigerian Army has launched a thorough investigation into the incident,” Nwankwo said.
The Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, expressed deep regret over the incident.
He assured that the army would leave no stone unturned in uncovering the truth and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
According to him, the leadership of the Nigerian Army has also reached out to the affected families, offering condolences and emotional support during this difficult time.
He emphasized that such acts are rare but distressing, and that the military takes the welfare and mental health of its personnel seriously.
Reports from Wawa Cantonment suggest that the soldier and his wife had not shown visible signs of distress before the event.
Neighbours described the couple as quiet and reserved, making the tragedy even more shocking.
The Nigerian Army said it remains committed to supporting its personnel through counseling and welfare programs aimed at addressing stress, trauma, and family challenges within the barracks.
While the investigation continues, the army urged members of the public to avoid spreading unverified information about the case.
It further appealed for privacy and respect for the deceased families as they mourn.
Tragic incidents involving security personnel have raised growing concern in recent years over mental health awareness within the Nigerian military.
Experts have repeatedly called for improved support systems to help soldiers cope with the emotional and psychological pressures of service.
Brig. Gen. Barkins reiterated that the findings of the investigation would be made public once concluded, stressing that transparency and accountability remain top priorities for the army.