The Nigerian Army has launched an in-depth investigation into the circumstances that led to the untimely death of one of its officers, Lieutenant Samson Haruna, who sustained severe burns following a tragic fire incident in Akwa Ibom State.
According to official reports, the late officer succumbed to his injuries at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) after battling for his life for two weeks. The incident occurred on September 22, 2025, at his residence in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
In a statement issued on Friday, Captain Lawal Muhammad, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 2 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, confirmed that a comprehensive probe was underway to establish the actual cause and circumstances surrounding the fire incident.
Muhammad stated, “An investigation was instituted at the onset of the incident to ascertain the circumstances surrounding it before the demise of the officer. The outcome of the investigation will be made public upon its conclusion.”
He explained that Lieutenant Haruna was immediately evacuated to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) following the tragic event, where he received extensive medical attention. However, despite the concerted efforts of medical professionals, the officer passed away on October 6, 2025, while receiving treatment.
According to the Army spokesperson, “The Nigerian Army wishes to inform the general public of an unfortunate incident involving Lieutenant S. Haruna and his wife, which occurred on 22 September 2025, resulting in fire burns sustained by the officer. Following the incident, the officer was immediately evacuated to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), where he received comprehensive medical treatment. Despite concerted efforts by the medical team to stabilise his condition, the officer sadly passed away on 6 October 2025 while receiving care.”
The Nigerian Army, while commiserating with the deceased’s family, colleagues, and friends, expressed its deep condolences and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, discipline, and professionalism in its internal processes.
“The Nigerian Army deeply commiserates with the family, colleagues, and friends of the deceased officer and prays for the repose of his soul,” the statement added.
Military insiders disclosed that such internal investigations are a routine part of the Army’s operational ethics, particularly in cases involving personnel injuries or deaths. These inquiries help determine whether foul play, negligence, or operational lapses contributed to the tragedy.
Over the years, the Nigerian Army has increasingly emphasized accountability and transparency in handling internal incidents, especially as public expectations for ethical conduct within the armed forces continue to grow.
The incident has also reignited public discussions on the welfare and safety of military officers, both in combat and domestic settings. Analysts believe the outcome of this investigation could set a precedent for how similar incidents are handled in the future.
Okay News reports that the Nigerian Army’s proactive communication in this case reflects its renewed commitment to openness, as part of wider reforms aimed at building public trust and strengthening institutional accountability within Nigeria’s security architecture.
As the investigation continues, Nigerians await the Army’s final report, which is expected to shed light on the true cause of the fire and the circumstances that led to Lieutenant Haruna’s death.
