Nigerian Herbalist to be charged
A dangerous experiment involving a so-called bulletproof charm landed a Nigerian traditional herbalist in the hospital, setting him up for legal action. Ismail Usman, a well-known herbalist in Kuchibuyi Village, Kubwa, Abuja, shot himself in the stomach with a shotgun while testing the charm’s effectiveness.
The incident, which occurred on November 23, 2024, drew immediate attention from authorities and locals alike. Usman suffered critical injuries when the charm failed to protect him. As such, he was initially rushed to the Kubwa General Hospital before being transferred to the Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital for further treatment.
In a statement, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed Usman’s forthcoming prosecution for illegal possession of firearms and attempted suicide.
“On November 23, 2024, an alarming incident unfolded in Kuchibuyi Village that drew the attention of the FCT Police Command,” said Josephine Adeh, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer.
“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,” Adeh explained.
“Officers from the Byazhin Division responded swiftly, arriving at the scene to find Usman in critical condition,” she added.
Following the incident, police conducted a search of Usman’s residence, uncovering the homemade shotgun used in the experiment along with various charms he crafted. These items are now key evidence in the ongoing investigation.
Under Section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria, Usman faces charges of unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide.
The case has sparked debate in the community, with some condemning the reckless nature of Usman’s actions and others questioning the continued belief in potentially harmful traditional practices. Authorities are using the incident to stress the dangers of unregulated firearms and to urge caution around unproven local remedies
As Usman, the Nigerian herbalist, recovers in the hospital, however, his legal woes are just beginning.
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