An Abuja-based herbalist, Ismail Usman, sustained life-threatening injuries after testing a self-made bulletproof charm by shooting himself in the stomach.
The bizarre incident occurred on November 23 in Kuchibuyi village, Federal Capital Territory, leaving residents shocked.
According to a statement released by FCT police command spokesperson Josephine Adeh, Usman used a locally fabricated gun after fortifying himself with a charm he had prepared. The charm failed to work as intended, resulting in severe injuries.
The police received a distress call from a local resident, prompting officers from the Byazhin Division to respond swiftly.
Usman was initially taken to Kubwa General Hospital and later transferred to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital due to the severity of his injuries. Doctors are reportedly working tirelessly to save his life.
Further investigations revealed that Usman’s reckless experiment involved an illegal firearm. A search of his home led to the recovery of the homemade gun and various charms.
Police confirmed that Usman would face charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide, offenses under Section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.
Commissioner of Police for the FCT, CP Olatunji Disu, condemned the incident, describing it as a dangerous and irresponsible act that underscores the risks posed by illegal firearms.
This unusual event has sparked discussions on the dangers of such unverified practices, with authorities urging citizens to avoid experimenting with their safety and to report cases involving illegal firearms. Investigations into the case are ongoing.