Category: Religion

By: Ibrahim Muhammad National Coordinator Independent Hajj Reporters muhasecond2@gmail.com

As highlighted in the first part of this piece, decentralization of the Hajj airlift to allow each state to choose its preferred airline was the major topic during the hearing. The states’ position stemmed from the seeming lapses and lack of synergy between NAHCON and State boards.

However, there are three sides to this policy: the advantages in terms of performance and ticket cost, safety and security, and the operational and logistical challenges involved. Fortunately, there have been instances in the past when the same issue of decentralisation of airlift became an issue.

Let’s rewind to look at the status of airlift before the Establishment of NAHCON and compare whether we have made progress in the Hajj Industry.

Status of Airlift of Pilgrims in the past Prior to the establishment of NAHCON, “Nigeria is the only country that airlifted its pilgrims behind schedules.

“It happened twice in 1971, in 1974, 1975, 1977. In 1978, inadequate provision of aircraft hampered the in-bound flight schedules It became almost an annual ritual that Nigeria had to plead, sometimes at residential level for the re-opening of Jeddah airport to it.

The outbound journey itself took the personal intervention of the Head of State, General Obasanjo to get it accomplished. Meanwhile, this was the year in which the number of pilgrims was halved (50,000) from the previous year’s number to ensure smooth operations

In 1982, in-bound airlift of pilgrims was complicated for the national carrier, Nigeria Airways, as it had to cater for the return journey of 31,000 international pilgrims in addition to the 50,000 officially approved by the Federal Government.

It was ill-prepared for this extra responsibility. According to Babatunde, “Nigeria came third in terms of number of pilgrims; we were number one in length of queues at the airport counters”.

These tormenting and frustrating queues, in his opinion, killed any morale left in pilgrims and sent them into angry demonstrations and mobbing of officials. In 1992 and then in 1994, the same problem still resurfaced.

A week after the pilgrims had all left Saudi Arabia; more than 30,000 Nigerian pilgrims (out of the official 38,000) were still stranded at the Jeddah airport.

Shortage of aircraft, shoddy arrangements and bureaucracy and above all, excess luggage was blamed for “the ugly spectacle of thousands of Nigerians huddled at the Jeddah airports”,.

Yet, there had been times when flights were delayed as aircrafts were waiting for intended pilgrims who failed to turn out.

This happened during Hajj 1982 when Nigeria Airways lost N80, 000 daily for such flights not made. “This seemingly intractable problem entered the 21st century with Nigeria even with more intensity.

Nigerian pilgrims were stranded in Saudi Arabia after Hajj in 2000 for more than two weeks. The inability of the local official airlines then: Trans Air and Kabo to airlift the pilgrims back home at the end of the pilgrimage forced the pilgrims who ran out of cash to sell their properties – electronics, jewelries, house-hold equipment and gift items – to feed”.

In the same year, reports mounted that stranded pilgrims were sleeping in the open field, contending with the biting weather, the Lagos State Government had to hire a foreign airline at a cost of N11.6 million to evacuate the 700 stranded pilgrims from the State. The State doubted the capability of Kabo Air, which was the approved official airline for the year’s Hajj. It asked for the decentralization of Hajj operations then”

So, the decentralization debate did not start today. This is an indication that there is nothing wrong in States Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards calls for involvement of States in selecting their preferred airline.

Such calls had also been made in 1978 after the abysmal Hajj operation. That year, the Saudi Arabian government decided “to assist the stranded Nigerian pilgrims to bring them home”. This humanitarian gesture on the part of the Saudis was apparently meant to remove the embarrassment from its shores,

In any case, the Saudi Arabian government considered blacklisting two Nigerian airlines from the airlift of 2001 pilgrims.

Saudi authorities wrote the Nigerian Government banning two of the airlines for poor performance in Hajj operations. They frowned at the way and manner the airlines abandoned pilgrims and their luggage in Saudi Arabia after Hajj 2000.

Yet, pilgrims were stranded in Saudi Arabia after Hajj 2001 with irate pilgrims beating up Hajj officials and holding them hostage as reported by Daily Times, March 21, 2001. And yet, thousands of intending pilgrims were stranded in 2004 with delays of their outbound flights across the country.

The Unpropitious Record Of 2006 Hajj Airlift. Historically, airlift of pilgrims is the bane of Nigeria’s Hajj operation.

The worst case perhaps was Hajj 2006 when 18.14 % of Nigerian pilgrims, (i.e. 10,500 out of the 57,870 pilgrims) could not make the Hajj due to the failure of the airlines to lift pilgrims for the outbound journeys This event was the topic of The Guardian, Editorial of January 20, 2006.

Sometimes a contracted airline company does not have aircraft. It goes to contract another airline, sometimes one of the airlines already contracted. This is part of what caused confusion and delays in the past.

Secondly, many pilgrims from Kano, Lagos and Maiduguri – the large pilgrims’ centers then – are traders and therefore always have excess luggage.

Third, sometimes, pilgrims are not available to board at the appropriate time. These VIP pilgrims appear last to be airlifted on the outbound trip, but they want to be the first to be airlifted for the inbound journey. All these disrupt arrangements and cause enormous chaos.

Hajj 2006 was the worst in the history of Hajj operations in Nigeria. More than 10,000 intending pilgrims could not make the Hajj. Equally disappointed were other thousands of pilgrims who registered with registered tour operators.

Ironically, it was perhaps the most well-planned Hajj so far too. According to Prof. Gwandu, Chairman, Technical Hajj Committee (THC), what happened was simply an act of God. Perhaps their best was simply not good enough.

But the DPA did meticulously search for airlines, screened them, involved the States’ Boards in the whole process and got approval for them from Saudi authorities and there was no cause for alarm.

Yet, the worst happened that year. Interestingly, “none of the three local carriers had enough aircrafts available as agreed and as at when due.

The air crashes that happened around that time, involving Belview and Sosoliso airlines, put the Aviation Ministry on edge and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) was uncompromising”.

“Saudi authorities also insisted on the installation of a safety devise, Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS). All these complicated the airlifting process.

But all said, thousands of Nigerian pilgrims were stranded and traumatized. The 36-hour extension which President Obasanjo got from the Saudi authorities by which aircrafts carrying Nigerian pilgrims could land till 8.00am Saudi time, on Friday January 6, 2006 did not help the situation”.

Interestingly, the then Governor Modu Sheriff of Borno State, and Governor Ahmed Bola Tinubu of Lagos State called for decentralizations of airlift as reported by The Guardian of January 11, 2000.

The two governors eventually intervened then and got many pilgrims in their respective states airlifted to Saudi Arabia. At the end of the Hajj exercise, 4000 Nigerian pilgrims were still stranded at the Jeddah airport.

History is alive. It was in response to the failures in airlift operations and the general outcry that followed that compelled the then Obasanjo’s administration to initiate the Nigerian National Hajj Commission Bill 2006 which the Senate eventually passed into law with the Commission taking off effectively in 2007.

The bill repealed the Nigerian Pilgrims Act of 1989. There is a moral factor to all of this. Positive work ethics is paramount in the success of any operation and proffering solutions to operational challenges.

The basis of this historical analysis is for us to understand that the main challenges that gave birth to NAHCON are the issue of previous failures in the Hajj Airlift and to appreciate the improvements recorded since then.

The second is for us to appreciate that there is nothing weird in States canvassing to be part of the process because of the Federalism structure we operate.

The third is to change our mindset to be more result-oriented in the task of hajj administrations as opposed to concentrating on ‘what is in for me’ that has brought us to public ridicule.

Additional material sourced from research conducted by, Jamiu Adewumi Oluwatoki of the Department of History and International Studies, Lagos State University.

By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

At the 2024 Auchi Day Celebration in Kaduna, Sheikh Muhammad Aminu Sale, the Chief Imam of Barkallahu Jummat Mosque, clarified the Islamic position on inheritance for Christian widows of late Muslim husbands. He explained that, under Islamic law, such widows do not inherit the properties of their deceased sons unless a will specifies otherwise.

“Even with a will, she is entitled to only six percent of her son’s wealth,” Sheikh Sale stated during a question-and-answer session following his lecture at the event.

A Celebration of Strength and Unity

Earlier in his welcome address, the President of the Auchi Progressive Union (APU) Kaduna branch, Alhaji A.M. Giwa, emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among members to overcome challenges.

“Today, we gather to celebrate our community’s strength, resilience, and unity. As we mark another year of togetherness, we honor our shared values, traditions, and achievements,” he said.

Giwa encouraged members to reflect on their accomplishments, recommit to their collective goals, and pledge to build a brighter future.

Honoring Heritage and Diversity

Auchi Day was also an opportunity to celebrate the community’s heritage, promote inclusivity, and empower youth, women, and elders.

“This celebration is a reminder that together, we can achieve greatness,” Alhaji Giwa added, appreciating past leaders, patrons, and members for their contributions to the community.

Highlights and Awards

The event featured awards recognizing distinguished individuals who have contributed to the growth and development of the community.

Notable attendees included former Edo State Youth Commissioners and retired Brigadier General Ali Baba, who praised the event’s organization and called for its annual continuation.

In interviews, guests such as Mrs. Zainab K. Owolabi and Rahab Ibrahim highlighted the importance of such gatherings in fostering unity and joy within the community.

By Jabiru Hassan, Kano

Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), a faith-based civil society organization that monitors, reports on, and advocates for transparency in Nigeria’s Hajj and Umrah industry, has called on the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to establish a special committee to monitor the disbursement of refunds to about 95,000 Nigerian pilgrims who participated in the 2023 Hajj exercise.

The CSO emphasized that this call is crucial due to the controversies that typically surround refunds to pilgrims from the country.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its national coordinator, Ibrahim Mohammed, IHR stated, “We are aware that refunds have been disbursed to State Pilgrim Boards, agencies, and Private Tour Operators for onward payment to their respective pilgrims from the 2023 Hajj.”

NAHCON had previously announced that each pilgrim who participated in the 2023 Hajj would receive a refund of 150 Saudi Riyals after the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reimbursed the commission for services inadequately provided to the pilgrims.

Additionally, the commission revealed that Nigerian pilgrims who participated in the 2022 Hajj under Private Hajj Operators would receive a refund of SR62,602 (approximately N27 million) from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for “poor feeding” in Mina during that year.

“We also urge NAHCON to publicly disclose details of the refund process as a demonstration of transparency and accountability. This is essential for restoring the confidence of the public and intending pilgrims in the system,” IHR said.

The CSO called for specific details to be made public, including the amount released to NAHCON by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, how much has been distributed or is due to State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, the number of affected pilgrims, and the names of private tour operators entitled to the refunds.

IHR further recommended that NAHCON compel State Muslim Pilgrims Boards and private tour operators to provide lists of pilgrims entitled to refunds and to monitor the process to ensure the refunds reach the rightful recipients.

“While we commend the Chairman and his Commissioners for approving the refunds, we urge the Commission to implement a process that guarantees the refunds are properly distributed to the 2023 Hajj pilgrims,” IHR added.

Furthermore, the CSO announced that it would form a small committee of veteran journalists to monitor the refund process and provide ongoing updates via IHR’s platforms and social media channels.

IHR also pledged to collaborate with NAHCON and other stakeholders to promote transparency and advocate for an efficient Hajj management system in Nigeria.

By  Milcah   Tanimu

The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) have expressed their approval of the Nigerian Senate’s decision to suspend the confirmation of the newly formed North-West Development Commission (NWDC) board. In a statement released on Monday, NCYP Chairman Isaac Abrak called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritize inclusive representation in the board’s appointments, especially by incorporating Christians.

Abrak noted that the Senate’s action demonstrated a commitment to fairness and equity in the region. He urged President Tinubu to engage in consultations with Christian leaders and regional stakeholders to select qualified individuals for the board. The group also reaffirmed its support for the president and his leadership, encouraging Nigerians to do the same.

This move is seen as a step towards ensuring diversity and balance in key government appointments.

By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

The leader of Christian United For Israel (CUFI), Prayer Outreach Nigeria, Dr. Samson Ozovehe, has urged the Nigerian government to strengthen its relationship with Israel as part of efforts to tackle terrorism in the country. Speaking during the group’s end-of-year dinner and night of honor in Kaduna, Dr. Ozovehe emphasized Israel’s advanced technology and military expertise, which he believes could be instrumental in helping Nigeria defeat insurgency.

Dr. Ozovehe highlighted Israel’s early warning regarding the rise of the new terror group, Lukurawa, and called for a strategic partnership to address Nigeria’s security challenges. “Israel has the technology and military know-how to help Nigeria defeat insurgency, which has crippled our economy,” he said, stressing the importance of reaching out to Israel for assistance in the fight against terrorism.

He further noted that the security situation has affected key sectors like agriculture, with farmers unable to access their land due to insecurity. “Israel can help Nigeria by providing technology to boost agriculture, process farm produce, and ensure food security,” Dr. Ozovehe explained. He urged the government to capitalize on this potential partnership, emphasizing that Israel’s expertise could help Nigeria reduce waste and improve agricultural output.

Ambassador Michael Freeman of Israel, represented at the event by Dr. Ozovehe, also called for deeper diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Israel. He assured that despite recent challenges, Israel would emerge stronger and remain committed to strengthening its relationship with Nigeria. The group concluded the event with prayers for peace in both the Middle East and Nigeria, reflecting a shared commitment to global peace and security.

Dr. Ozovehe’s call for enhanced collaboration between the two nations underscores the growing need for international partnerships to address Nigeria’s security and economic challenges.

By Israel Adamu, Jos

The Executive Chairman of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Council, alongside top officials, paid a condolence visit on Sunday to the family of the late Justice Chrysantus Tsenlong, a respected former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Plateau State.

A statement signed by Danaan Cletus Sylvanus, the Chairman’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, conveyed the Chairman’s heartfelt sympathies to Justice Tsenlong’s family, the Goemai Nation, the Judiciary, and the people of Plateau State.

The delegation, which included Council Secretary Hon. Joseph Dashe, Local Government Chief of Staff Hon. Dangwam Raymond, Dr. Engr. Naankang Garba (President of the Pan Development Association), and Education Secretary Mr. Danang Godwin, lauded the late Justice Tsenlong as a distinguished jurist whose contributions to the judiciary and Plateau State remain invaluable.

In his remarks, the Chairman expressed deep sorrow over the loss and prayed for the repose of Justice Tsenlong’s soul. He also prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family during this challenging time.

On behalf of the family, former Secretary to the Government of Plateau State, Mr. Kevin Kwaplong, expressed gratitude to the Chairman and his entourage for their condolence visit and thoughtful gestures. He emphasized how such acts of solidarity bring comfort and unity during moments of grief.

The family appreciated the council’s support and solidarity, viewing it as a testament to the strong communal bonds within Qua’an-Pan.

Mr. Kwaplong also extended his best wishes to the Chairman and his team, commending their leadership and the positive impact they continue to make on the people of Qua’an-Pan Local Government.

By Jabiru Hassan

Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), a faith-based Civil Society Organization (CSO) that monitors Hajj and Umrah activities, has urged the ad hoc committee set up by the House of Representatives to investigate the 2024 Hajj to suspend its investigation. The CSO suggests this will allow the Executive Secretaries of State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards to focus on preparations for the 2025 Hajj.

In a statement signed by IHR’s national coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammed, the CSO acknowledged the House’s authority to investigate state authorities but cautioned that such an investigation, which could disrupt preparations for next year’s pilgrimage, should be postponed.

IHR recognized operational lapses during the 2024 Hajj but stressed that, in general, the quality of services provided to pilgrims was better than in the previous year, with the exception of a controversy involving VIP customers of Private Tour Operators who were denied space in exclusive tents.

The CSO also noted that the investigation was largely driven by allegations of mismanagement of the N90 billion government intervention fund and other financial irregularities, particularly concerning the former chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). IHR pointed out that anti-corruption agencies are already investigating these issues, and key officials involved have been removed from office.

IHR further warned that conducting a parallel investigation could hinder preparations for the 2025 Hajj, especially as state pilgrims’ welfare board officials were already required to appear before the committee, disrupting their focus on next year’s plans. The committee had initially scheduled hearings for November 4, which were later postponed to November 12, causing further confusion and wasted resources for officials who had already traveled to Abuja.

The CSO urged the House Committee to consider the broader implications of its actions, which could detract from the crucial work needed to prepare for the 2025 Hajj registration and operations, especially at a time of economic challenges.

By Usman Bakare

In July 2024, amidst the bustling atmosphere of Makkah, Saudi Arabia, the Nigeria Hajj Commission (NAHCON) was working diligently. While part of NAHCON’s team was focused on arranging the safe return of Nigerian pilgrims, another team was already preparing for the 2025 Hajj operations. This groundwork began in their Ummul Jud office, where NAHCON officials reviewed and approved the calendar of events and Nigeria’s Hajj manual for the coming year, setting the stage for future planning.

As a proactive measure, NAHCON issued an advertisement in selected Nigerian newspapers, inviting complaints from dissatisfied pilgrims. This early release aimed to facilitate a smoother reconciliation process and expedite the release of caution deposits to private tour operators, along with refunds to the State Pilgrims’ Welfare boards. According to Hajj operational procedures, the reconciliation and refunds cannot occur until a 30-day complaint window closes.

Although NAHCON could have waited until returning to Nigeria before placing the ad, releasing it earlier aimed to reduce the wait time, allowing for faster processing of refunds once back home.

In July, NAHCON’s then-leader, Malam Jalal Ahmed Arabi, led a team on a fact-finding mission to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Their goal was to learn how to improve the 2025 Hajj arrangements. The team returned enthusiastic, armed with insights into Saudi Arabia’s expectations and plans for Hajj operations.

Upon their return to Nigeria, the then-NAHCON Chairman outlined three immediate actions: a post-Hajj press briefing, a retreat to review the 2024 Hajj, and an advertisement calling for applications from interested air carriers for 2025. The airline invitation, unlike the previous ad, required six weeks in the public domain to allow for a thorough review and alignment with Saudi timelines. However, of these plans, only the press briefing could proceed before unforeseen circumstances disrupted the Commission’s workflow.

Since then, NAHCON has faced significant challenges, reflecting the effects of political instability within the Hajj operations landscape. This reflection draws inspiration from a detailed article by Ibrahim Mohammed of Independent Hajj Reporters, titled Preparation for Hajj 2025 and Tale of “What Happened in 1992”. Mohammed’s piece urges Hajj stakeholders in Nigeria to protect the industry from politically motivated disruptions that threaten progress.

NAHCON was created nearly 20 years ago by President Olusegun Obasanjo to eliminate unethical practices that negatively impacted pilgrims and tarnished Nigeria’s reputation abroad. This reform curbed many fraudulent actors who once exploited the industry. However, these individuals continue to attempt to destabilize NAHCON’s legitimate operations through blackmail, treachery, and defamation campaigns in the media.

This cycle of opposition affected leaders like Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan and Barrister Abdullahi Mukhtar Muhammad, with the latter navigating these challenges by leveraging his expertise in Hajj operations. Mukhtar’s understanding of the complexities of the industry helped him identify and circumvent the traps set by detractors.

To prevent the Hajj sector from regressing, the public must distinguish genuine leaders from those with ulterior motives. Calls for dismantling NAHCON, or for a return to disorganized operations, only serve those who seek to revive outdated, exploitative practices. Countries that align with Saudi Arabia’s structured system benefit from seamless Hajj operations, demonstrating the effectiveness of centralized coordination.

NAHCON was established to move away from the haphazard, last-minute committees that once plagued Nigeria’s Hajj operations. Yet, with persistent political interference, NAHCON risks regressing to that inefficient model. Politicians may use the public’s unwitting support to unseat dedicated leaders who refuse to compromise on quality. It is crucial for the public to resist being swayed by unfounded accusations and media trials targeting Hajj officials.

NAHCON’s leadership must remain steadfast and learn from past leaders like Mukhtar, ensuring the Commission’s mission endures amid political pressures.

By   Milcah   Tanimu

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna State has urged President Bola Tinubu to reevaluate the membership of the North-West Development Commission. The association believes that a more inclusive composition will enhance effective coordination and successful policy implementation in the region.

Pastor Caleb Ma’aji, the state chairman of CAN, made this appeal during a courtesy visit from officials of the Northern Christian Youth Professionals. He emphasized the importance of reflecting the true religious and ethnic diversity in the North-West.

Represented by Secretary Emmanuel Okunlola, Ma’aji highlighted Nigeria’s multicultural and multi-ethnic nature. He stated, “Those in authority must consider this diversity in the spirit of peaceful coexistence.”

In addition, Ma’aji reminded Governor Uba Sani of his earlier promise to reconstruct the church in the Kuriga Community of Chikun Local Government Area. The church was previously destroyed, along with its properties, during violent incidents.

Furthermore, Ma’aji called for patience and resilience among Nigerians facing difficulties. He encouraged trust in the government for a brighter future and national survival. He expressed hope that the ongoing reforms by the Federal Government would spur economic revival and national prosperity, while reminding leaders of their accountability to God.

Earlier, Mr. Isaac Abrak, President of the Northern Christian Youth Professionals, explained that the group aims to improve the socio-economic well-being of Christians in the North and all Nigerians. He noted that their organization supported Tinubu’s election due to his past leadership in uplifting the youth and the underprivileged.

Abrak urged Nigerians to give the President time and cooperation as his reform policies take effect. He praised CAN for advocating a review of the North-West Development Commission and addressing the issue of the Kuriga bandit attacks. He emphasized that all Nigerians deserve equal treatment, regardless of their religious, cultural, or ethnic backgrounds.

 

By Jabiru Hassan, Kano

Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), a civil society organization that monitors and reports on Hajj and Umrah activities in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, has called on the Acting Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Usman Saleh, to concentrate his efforts on the sluggish preparations for the 2025 Hajj.

In a statement signed by its national coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammed, IHR welcomed the acting chairman on his formal resumption of office.

“You are taking charge of the driver’s seat of the Hajj industry at a critical moment in the life of NAHCON since its creation via the NAHCON Establishment Act of 2006 to serve as the apex Hajj regulatory authority in Nigeria. The image and integrity of the Nigerian Hajj industry have been compromised and urgently require restoration to regain the confidence and trust of pilgrims and the Nigerian Muslim Ummah,” the statement said.

IHR urged Professor Saleh to restructure NAHCON’s internal operating framework to enhance service delivery to pilgrims, similar to the approaches being developed by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

“We advise the new NAHCON leader to be cautious of distractions that may divert him from the crucial task of ensuring that Nigerian pilgrims receive timely and quality service. This includes proper coordination with other operational stakeholders, such as State Muslim Pilgrims Boards and licensed private Hajj and Umrah operators, to deliver effective services.

“Close your ears to flattery from praise singers and writers; instead, welcome insights from those with operational expertise. Listen to advice and suggestions from your inner circle, but discern what is right and wrong. Engage your commissioners and staff in all decisions, keeping in mind that you are the chief accounting officer and will be held accountable for all implemented decisions. Always prioritize the welfare of and services to Nigerian pilgrims, and learn from the avoidable mistakes of your predecessors,” IHR advised.

“The immediate task before the commission is to create a realistic Hajj fare computation template, encourage State Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Boards to promote awareness about 2025 Hajj pilgrim registrations, revise the pilgrim orientation manual to emphasize performing Hajj rites and achieving Hajj Mabrur rather than promising unattainable luxury services. Address the genuine concerns of licensed Hajj and Umrah operators, establish merit-based guidelines for selecting ad-hoc committees during Hajj operations, and implement a carrot-and-stick approach in dealing with your staff. Choose Hajj service providers that possess the capacity and experience to serve our pilgrims, both onshore and offshore,” it added.

“As a civil society organization that has significantly contributed to the dissemination of information to the Muslim Ummah and promoted healthy competition, we will continue to support and advocate for transparency and accountability, regardless of who is involved. We will also maintain existing public and private channels for raising observations, offering suggestions, and performing surveillance functions as journalists.”