Nigerian Army confirms soldier killed wife, took own life at Wawa Cantonment

By Kunle Sanni –

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that one of its personnel, Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, allegedly killed his wife and then took his own life at Wawa Cantonment in Niger State.

In a statement issued on Sunday by Captain Stephen Nwankwo, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, the Army said the tragic incident occurred on Friday, October 11, 2025, at the 221 Battalion quarters within the cantonment.

According to the statement, the bodies of the soldier and his wife were discovered in their apartment at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters, leaving residents of the barracks in shock.

Preliminary investigations, the Army said, revealed that Lance Corporal Femi was on duty within the cantonment before he requested permission from his superior to attend to personal matters. His death and that of his wife were later discovered in their residence.

“The remains of the deceased have been preserved, while an in-depth investigation has since commenced to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident,” the statement read in part.

The Nigerian Army expressed deep regret over the development and extended condolences to the family, colleagues, and friends of the deceased, praying for the peaceful repose of their souls.

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

“The circumstances that led to the sad incident will be thoroughly investigated, and the outcome relayed to the general public accordingly,” Barkins said.

He also urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with the ongoing investigation, adding that necessary measures would be put in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future.