The Nigerian Army has launched an investigation into the deaths of a soldier and his wife at the Wawa Military Cantonment in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
The deceased soldier, Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, who served with the 221 Battalion, allegedly killed his wife before taking his own life in their apartment at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters, on October 11. The tragic incident has thrown the barracks community into mourning.
In a statement, the Spokesman of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, confirmed the development, saying preliminary investigations indicated that the soldier was on duty within the cantonment before the incident occurred.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the soldier was on duty within the cantonment and obtained permission from his superior to attend to personal matters before returning to duty, prior to the discovery of the dead bodies in their apartment,” Nwankwo said.
He added that the remains of the deceased had been preserved, and a full-scale investigation was underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
“The remains of the deceased have been preserved, while an in-depth investigation has since commenced to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident,” he stated.
The army spokesperson assured that the outcome of the probe would be made public and further measures implemented to prevent a recurrence.
“The Nigerian Army anticipates maximum understanding and cooperation of the public as always, assuring that the outcome of the investigation will not only be made public, rather, further scrutinised, and measures put in place to avoid future occurrences.
“The Nigerian Army 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,” he added.
Nwankwo further noted that the Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier-General Ezra Barkins, had assured the public that the matter would be thoroughly investigated and findings communicated in due course.
“The circumstances that led to the sad incident will be thoroughly investigated, and the outcome relayed to the general public accordingly,” the statement read.
