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.
