A wave of grief and confusion has swept through Wawa Cantonment in Niger State following the shocking incident involving a soldier, Lance Corporal Akinyele Femi, who reportedly shot his wife before taking his own life. The heartbreaking event occurred on October 11, 2025, inside the couple’s apartment at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters.

In a statement issued by Capt. Stephen Nwankwo, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, the Army confirmed that it has launched a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Preliminary findings, according to Nwankwo, indicate that Lance Corporal Femi was on official duty within the Cantonment when he sought permission from his superior to briefly attend to personal matters at home. Sadly, a few hours later, the bodies of the soldier and his wife were discovered lifeless in their residence.

“The remains of the deceased have been preserved, while an in-depth investigation is ongoing to determine what truly led to the unfortunate incident,” the statement read.

The shocking event has left residents of the Cantonment in deep sorrow and disbelief. Many described the late soldier as a disciplined and dedicated officer, expressing surprise over what could have prompted such an act.

The Nigerian Army, while expressing its condolences to the bereaved family, colleagues, and friends of the deceased, said it was “deeply saddened by the tragic development” and assured that every effort would be made to uncover the truth.

Brigadier-General Ezra Barkins, Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, has also pledged that the findings of the investigation will be made public. He further stated that new internal measures would be introduced to prevent a recurrence of similar tragedies within the Army community.

The incident has reignited conversations about the mental health and emotional well-being of military personnel, with calls for increased psychological support and counselling services for soldiers dealing with personal or professional stress.