By Sola Ojewusi
The death of Lieutenant Dr. Samson Haruna, a young military medical officer from Jos, Plateau State, has gripped the nation in sorrow — and now, controversy.
Earlier reports alleged that Dr. Haruna’s wife, Retyit Dalong Haruna, set him ablaze during a violent quarrel barely five months after their wedding. He later died from severe burns at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, sparking outrage and condemnation across social media.
But in a recorded audio message released days after the tragedy, Retyit offered a different version of events. Her voice, trembling yet defiant, insisted:
“I did not kill my husband. It was an accident.”
According to her, the couple had endured a string of domestic disagreements and what she described as episodes of physical violence from both sides. She claimed that on the day of the incident, a heated argument spiralled out of control, resulting in the fatal fire — not an intentional act of murder, as widely believed.
Her account starkly contrasts with the official narrative circulating online and among some of Dr. Haruna’s colleagues, who maintain that the attack was deliberate. Investigators are said to be reviewing witness statements and forensic evidence to establish what truly happened that night.
For friends and relatives, the tragedy has become more than a single heartbreaking event — it is a mirror reflecting the deeper crisis of love, trust, and anger tearing through many young marriages.
As the nation mourns a promising doctor and listens to his widow’s plea, we are left asking difficult questions: How does love so quickly turn to hostility? Why do many couples choose silence instead of seeking help when violence begins to creep in? And in a world of instant passions and fragile tempers, what does it truly mean to say “Till death do us part”?
Whatever the investigation concludes, the story of Samson and Retyit Haruna is a haunting reminder that unchecked anger in the home can destroy not just one life — but two.
May the truth emerge. And may lessons be learned.
Inside the Harunas’ Five-Month Marriage
A Timeline of Love, Conflict, and Tragedy
April 2025 — A Love Story Begins
Lieutenant Dr. Samson Haruna, a 33-year-old military medical officer from Jos, and 29-year-old Retyit Dalong Haruna, a public-health worker, wed in a quiet but joyful ceremony attended by family, friends, and fellow officers. Photos from the day show a radiant couple exchanging vows and laughter—two promising lives bound by love and faith.
May – July 2025 — Cracks in the Wall
Neighbours later recalled occasional quarrels and long silences. According to friends, the couple struggled with distance, professional stress, and jealousy. Retyit would later allege that their relationship was marred by “episodes of domestic violence,” though those claims remain under investigation.
August 2025 — Escalation
Family sources said tension grew when the doctor was redeployed to a new unit in Uyo, while his wife juggled work and relocation plans. Text messages reportedly showed repeated arguments over communication and fidelity.
September 2025 — The Night of the Fire
On the night of the incident, the couple’s disagreement spiralled. Accounts diverge: witnesses allege that Retyit poured petrol and ignited the flame; her own testimony claims it was an accident during a struggle. Dr. Haruna was rushed first to the military clinic and then to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, where he died days later from extensive burns.
October 2025 — An Audio Defence Emerges
In a tearful recording now circulating online, Retyit insists she “did not kill” her husband and pleads that “it was an accident.” Her version challenges the viral narrative of premeditated murder. The military police and state investigators continue to gather statements, lab results, and forensic evidence.
Today — Grief, Debate, and Reflection
Both families are in mourning. Supporters demand justice; others call for empathy until the full truth is known. The case has sparked nationwide debate on domestic violence, emotional control, and mental health within relationships.
As Nigeria waits for answers, one question echoes beyond the headlines:
How do two people who once promised forever become adversaries in just five months?
