A herbalist, Ismail Usman, is in critical condition after he shot himself while testing a self-made “bulletproof” charm in Kuchibuyi village, located in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja. The bizarre incident occurred on November 23 when Usman, who is known for his unconventional methods, used a locally fabricated gun to shoot himself in the stomach, believing the charm would protect him from the bullet.
However, the charm failed to provide any protection, leaving him with life-threatening injuries.
Confirming the incident, the FCT police spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, stated that officers from the Byazhin Division responded to a distress call made by a resident. When they arrived at the scene, they found Usman in a critical condition and quickly transported him to Kubwa General Hospital for initial treatment. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later transferred to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital, where medical professionals are working to save his life.
During a follow-up investigation, the police conducted a search of Usman’s home, where they recovered the homemade firearm used in the incident, as well as various charms that he had used in his dangerous experiment.
Adeh revealed that Usman will face charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide, in violation of Section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.
The Commissioner of Police for FCT, CP Olatunji Disu, condemned the incident, emphasizing the serious risks posed by illegal firearms and such reckless behavior. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
