The Nigerian Government has warned pilgrims performing the 2024 Hajj to refrain from traveling with illicit drugs, kolanuts, and cigarettes into Saudi Arabia, warning that “death penalty awaits those who flout the directive.”
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Malam Jalal Arabi, cautioned pilgrims to “beware of being used as a conduit pipe for any illicit trade without their knowledge.” He reminded them that Saudi Arabia “holds strict laws against drug trafficking, which death sentence is the penalty for anyone caught.”
In a statement, the NAHCON chairman urged pilgrims to “remember the purposes for which they were embarking on the holy pilgrimage.” The statement reads in part:
“NAHCON wishes to remind the pilgrims that the purpose of their trip to Saudi Arabia is for worship, therefore they should not be distracted by acts that would violate the sanctity of their Hajj.”
“Hajj period is a time for spiritual reflection and prayers that should be approached with reverence and respect for the laws and customs of the host country.”
“On the other hand, the Commission’s management warns intending pilgrims to beware of being used as a conduit for any illicit trade without their knowledge.”
“Therefore, they are advised to be extra vigilant over their bags at the airports to avoid implantation of prohibited items to their luggage unawares.”
“Pilgrims are urged to uphold their honor and dignity and that of the country, as any individual caught smuggling prohibited items not only brings shame upon themselves but also tarnishes the reputation of their nation.”
The Commission advised the State Pilgrims Welfare Boards to “collaborate fully with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and other related agencies in ensuring that persons planning to smuggle items prohibited in Saudi Arabia are apprehended to avoid embarrassment to Nigeria and unnecessary delays during screening in both countries.”
What have they done to our president, bunch of clowns