Atafo Igbinedion –
In a bizarre incident at Kuchibuyi Village, Abuja, a local herbalist, Ismail Usman, accidentally shot himself while testing a self-made “bulletproof” charm.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, confirmed the incident, which occurred on November 23. According to her, Usman fired a homemade shotgun at himself to prove the efficacy of his charm but ended up critically injured.
“We received a distress call from one Shandam Michael, and officers from the Byazhin Division responded immediately,” said Adeh. “The herbalist was found in critical condition and was rushed to Kubwa General Hospital before being transferred to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital for further treatment.”
Police investigations revealed that the firearm used in the experiment was illegally possessed. “During a search of Usman’s residence, officers recovered the homemade gun and various charms linked to his reckless act,” she added.
Usman is expected to face charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide under Section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.
Adeh also used the opportunity to emphasize community safety, stating, “It’s crucial for residents to look out for one another and report any suspicious activities to authorities promptly.”
The incident has sparked discussions about the dangers of traditional practices involving firearms and the need for stricter enforcement of gun laws in the region.
