Military Investigates Officer's Death in Akwa Ibom, Dismisses Suicide Allegations

The 6 Division, Nigeria Army, based in Port Harcourt, has refuted claims of suicide involving one of its officers, Lieutenant Alphonsus Bazza. In a statement titled 'Re-Nigerian Army Captain Reportedly Committed Suicide in Akwa Ibom,' released on Tuesday, the Army clarified that Lieutenant Bazza met his demise while on duty.

The announcement, signed by Major Jonah Danjuma, the Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, disclosed that Bazza lost his life during deployment for Exercise Still Waters III at the 2 Brigade Step-Up Headquarters in Essien Udim Local Government of Akwa Ibom State. Emphasizing the Army's commitment to the welfare of its personnel, Danjuma urged the media to avoid disseminating narratives insinuating the security outfit's complicity in the officer's death.

The statement explained, "On November 11, 2023, the officer was not seen at the Step-up Headquarters, all efforts to reach him proved abortive. Hence, a search was launched in the general area, and his lifeless body was discovered." Expressing condolences to Lieutenant Bazza's family, the 6 Division assured the public that a thorough investigation was underway, and the results would be communicated in due course. The Army emphasized its professionalism and commitment to handling such incidents within established regimental procedures.