The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has warned Nigerians going for the 2024 Hajj without proper documentation that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has placed a N3,708,336 fine on violators.
A statement by NAHCON’s Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Fatima Sanda Usara, said a letter by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Interior stipulated a penalty of deportation and fine of 10,000 SR on anyone caught performing Hajj without the authorised Hajj permit.
Usara said NAHCON received the letter through the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs from the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia, Abuja, disclosing the stand of the Saudi Council of Senior Scholars on the matter.
“The Council issued a Fatwa (a legal ruling given by recognised religious authority) to the Muslim Ummah emphasising the prohibition of performing Hajj without a permit.”
FG working to reduce high maternal, infant mortality rate — Presidency
FG directs outgoing VCs to hand over to deputies
The letter stated in part that, “The Council in its Fatwa, urged pilgrims to adhere to rules and regulations, aimed at enabling Muslims to perform the Hajj in safety and tranquility.”