A domestic drama with serious medical consequences has gripped the Dakwa community in Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, where two co-wives were hospitalized after consuming a locally made herbal aphrodisiac known as kayan mata.
The women, whose names have not been disclosed, reportedly ingested the concoction in a desperate bid to reignite their husband’s sexual interest following his recent marriage to a third wife. Kayan mata is a traditional herbal mixture popular in parts of northern Nigeria, believed to enhance female sexual allure and boost male libido.
The incident occurred just days after their husband, Musa Muhammad, took a new bride from Gusau, Zamfara State. According to Muhammad, the situation escalated quickly and left him shaken.
“I was called from my main house that my two wives were not feeling well because I passed the night at a different house where my new bride is residing,” Muhammad told reporters. “I rushed back and found them writhing in pain, complaining of stomach issues.”
Initially, the women were treated by a local nurse, but when their condition worsened, Muhammad transported them to a private clinic in Madalla, Niger State.
“The doctor said the herbal mixture they took caused internal damage. They had to undergo surgery,” he explained. “It was a very scary experience. I just thank God they survived.”
READ ALSO: ‘He loves me’ – Tiwa Savage sparks dating rumours with Usher
A medical officer at the clinic, who asked not to be named, confirmed that the patients had suffered from internal complications, which were “likely linked to ingestion of unregulated traditional substances.”
“They came in with acute abdominal pain, and we later discovered internal inflammation consistent with chemical toxicity. Surgery was necessary to save their lives,” the doctor stated.
Community members were both shocked and sympathetic. A neighbor, Malama Hauwa, expressed concern over the increasing use of unregulated aphrodisiacs among women feeling emotionally neglected in polygamous homes.
“It’s sad. Women go through a lot to keep their husbands’ attention. But risking your health like this? It’s not worth it,” she said. “The government needs to regulate these things. People are selling dangerous mixtures like they’re ordinary perfume oil.”
Health experts continue to raise red flags about kayan mata, especially those sold in unverified forms online or through street vendors. Without oversight from any regulatory authority, the potency and safety of these substances vary wildly — and, as this case demonstrates, can be life-threatening.
“This is a wake-up call,” said Dr. Rahila Musa, a public health specialist. “Cultural practices should not come at the cost of women’s health. Traditional aphrodisiacs like kayan mata need to be properly studied, regulated, and used under professional guidance — if at all.”
The two women have since been discharged after nearly a week of medical care, but their case has left a lasting impression on the community — and on their husband, who says he is rethinking how he manages his home.
“I never wanted anyone to get hurt,” Muhammad said. “This has taught me that love and attention can’t be measured in numbers of wives. I need to be more present for my family.”