Nigerian TikToker's Close Call: Snake Mistaken for Charger Cord at Toilet Door
A young Nigerian woman has created a social media sensation after sharing a frightening encounter with a snake in her home. The incident, which occurred as she was preparing for work, has raised serious concerns about reptile safety in residential areas across Nigeria.
The Moment of Realization
The TikTok user known as @chimburoma05 captured the alarming moment on video. According to her account, she initially believed the snake was simply her charger cord lying on the floor near her toilet door. She was moments away from picking it up when she recognized the creature's true nature. The reptile was seen slithering across the ceramic tiles, creating a chilling visual that quickly went viral.
"Found this snake this morning front of my toilet door while preparing for work and was about picking it up thinking it was my charger cord," she wrote alongside the video. "Thank God for light." Her reference to electricity suggests that proper lighting helped her identify the danger before making physical contact.
Online Reactions and Warnings
The video prompted immediate concern from viewers, with many warning that the presence of one snake often indicates others nearby. Several commenters suggested that a larger snake might be hiding somewhere in her house, a common belief in Nigerian communities where snake encounters occur.
Social media users shared their own harrowing experiences with reptiles in homes:
- Ms. Khloe?❤️ described jumping from her toilet in panic after seeing the video
- Mama T. W recounted a midnight encounter with a snake attempting to enter through her window while she fed her newborn
- Boldgirl ?♏ shared a pregnancy experience where snakes regularly visited her without causing harm
- Elon father pikin ?♀️ humorously noted that her own patterned tiles might camouflage snakes
Broader Context of Snake Encounters in Nigeria
This incident highlights a recurring safety concern in many Nigerian households, particularly in areas where urban development meets natural habitats. The viral video has reignited discussions about:
- Home safety measures against reptile intrusion
- The importance of proper lighting in identifying household dangers
- Community awareness about snake habitats and behavior
- Emergency response protocols for reptile encounters
The TikToker's experience follows other recent reports of snake encounters in Nigeria. In related stories, individuals have shared survival accounts after snakebites, including one woman who survived two separate incidents in 2013 and more recently while farming. These narratives emphasize both the dangers posed by reptiles and the resilience of those who encounter them.
Preventive Considerations
While the viral video has entertained and alarmed viewers in equal measure, it serves as a crucial reminder about household safety. Experts typically recommend several preventive measures:
- Regular inspection of home entry points and potential hiding spots
- Maintaining clear, well-lit pathways in and around living spaces
- Understanding local snake species and their behaviors
- Having emergency contact information for wildlife removal services
The young woman's fortunate escape from what could have been a dangerous snakebite has sparked important conversations about coexistence with wildlife in Nigerian residential areas. As her video continues circulating online, it serves as both a cautionary tale and a testament to the importance of vigilance in everyday environments.