EFCC Summons Hajj Commission Chair, Arabi Over N90billion Released For 2024 Pilgrimage
The commission is also investigating claims of alleged mistreatment of pilgrims during the 2024 Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has summoned Malam Jalal Arabi, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to its headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.
Arabi is scheduled to meet with EFCC officials at 10am today (Tuesday) to account for the N90billion subsidy allocated for the 2024 Hajj.
EFCC sources revealed to Daily Trust that Arabi would need to explain how NAHCON distributed thousands of dollars intended for pilgrims.
The commission is also investigating claims of alleged mistreatment of pilgrims during the 2024 Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
“We are carrying out our legal duties impartially. The EFCC is focused on tackling financial crimes,” an EFCC source stated.
EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, was contacted for additional details but he had not responded by the time of this report.
On Monday, Arabi explained that each pilgrim who paid through the government quota received N1.6million due to naira instability.
He noted that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s foreign exchange reforms led to insufficient initial payments, prompting NAHCON to seek federal assistance. Instead of a concessionary exchange rate, the president approved a N90 billion intervention to support pilgrims.
Meanwhile, SaharaReporters earlier reported that Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State called for urgent action to investigate the alleged mismanagement of a staggering N90billion federal government subsidy for Hajj pilgrimage.
N90Billion Hajj Subsidy Scandal: Niger Governor Urges Nigerian Federal Lawmakers To Probe ‘Failed’ Pilgrimage Operation
Addressing the media at a press conference in Saudi Arabia, Governor Bago did not mince words as he criticised the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for its handling of substantial public funds allocated for the annual pilgrimage.
“It’s unfortunate, and there is a need for the National Assembly to probe these funds,” Governor Bago declared, highlighting concerns over the transparency and efficiency of NAHCON’s financial operations.
The governor went further by announcing his intention to spearhead efforts within the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to propose a legislation aimed at dismantling NAHCON’s operational authority.
“NAHCON is not helping matters. The government has no business in doing this business,” he asserted, advocating for a privatised approach to ensure better efficiency and accountability in managing Hajj affairs.
