Ismail Usman, an Abuja based self- acclaimed herbalist is currently battling for his life in a hospital after he shot himself on the stomach while testing the efficacy of his “bulletproof charm” popularly called odeshi.
Usman was said to have shot himself in Kuchibuyi settlement on November 223, 2024 after he had ingested and “fortified” himself against bullets.
However, in apparent failure of the charm, the herbalist inflicted life-threatening injuries on himself and was subsequently rushed to the hospital where he is currently being treated for his injuries. The matter was also reported to the police who are now investigating the matter.
Confirming the incident, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command spokesperson, Josephine Adeh told journalists that police personnel from the Byazhin Division who were alerted to the incident promptly evacuated the herbalist and rushed him to Kubwa General Hospital, from where he was transferred to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital.
According to the police spokeswoman, “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.”
Ms Adeh confirmed that after his treatment, Usman would face charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide, which violates Section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.
“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
“Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Olatunji Disu, condemned the incident, highlighting the dangers associated with illegal firearms,” the police spokeswoman stated.