Herbalist Tests ‘Bulletproof’ Charm, Sustains Life-Threatening Injuries In Abuja

An herbalist, identified as Ismail Usman, sustained severe injuries after testing a self-made ‘bulletproof’ charm in Kuchibuyi Village, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, on November 23, 2024.

Usman reportedly shot himself in the stomach with a locally fabricated gun after fortifying himself with the charm he had prepared. However, the charm failed, leaving him critically injured.

The FCT Police Command spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday. According to Adeh, the police received a distress call from a resident of the village, prompting officers from the Byazhin Division to respond swiftly.

Due to the severity of his injuries, Usman was later transferred to the Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital, where doctors are reportedly working tirelessly to save his life.

She said, “A distress call from Shandam Michael reported a shocking event involving Ismail Usman, a local herbalist known for his unconventional methods. In a misguided attempt to test the effectiveness of a self-made ‘bulletproof’ charm, Usman shot himself in the stomach with a shotgun.

“Unfortunately, the charm failed to protect him, resulting in life-threatening injuries. Officers from the Byazhin Division responded swiftly, arriving at the scene to find Usman in critical condition. He was quickly transported to Kubwa General Hospital for emergency treatment and later transferred to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital for further care.

“In the aftermath, police conducted a thorough search of Usman’s home, recovering the homemade gun and an array of charms used in his reckless experiment.”

Adeh said Usman would face charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide, which violates section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.

She said, “Investigations are ongoing, and 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.

“The Commissioner of Police FCT, Olatunji Disu, condemned the incident, noting dangers associated with illegal firearms.”