In a somber development for intending pilgrims from Taraba State, six individuals who were set to embark on the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage have passed away before their planned departure. This revelation was made by Alhaji Abubakar Tanko, the acting head of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, during a ceremony held in Jalingo to bid farewell to the departing faithful.
According to Tanko, the state is preparing to transport 716 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia on Sunday to perform the annual religious rites. He noted that while 738 people initially showed interest, only 716 successfully paid their Hajj fees within the stipulated timeframe, making them eligible for travel.
The board secretary further disclosed that although 723 visas were obtained for the state, seven were rescinded. This cancellation was due to the deaths of six applicants—four from natural causes and two from road accidents—and the disqualification of a pregnant woman who was found unfit for the journey.
Tanko advised the pilgrims to manage their Basic Travel Allowance judiciously to circumvent financial difficulties during their stay in the holy land. He also acknowledged Governor Agbu Kefas for his moral and financial backing, which has been pivotal in facilitating the Hajj operations.
Governor Kefas, represented by the Chief of Staff to the Deputy Governor’s Office, Mohammed Al’amin Ibrahim, urged the pilgrims to exhibit discipline and conduct themselves honorably throughout their pilgrimage. He reminded them of the core tenets of Islam and emphasized fulfilling religious duties with devotion to Allah.
The governor also warned against any behavior that could bring disrepute to Taraba State and Nigeria. He highlighted his administration’s equal commitment to both Muslim and Christian pilgrimages, underlining the government’s dedication to supporting religious endeavors across the state. Additionally, he called on the pilgrims to offer prayers for peace, unity, and the consolidation of democracy in Taraba and Nigeria during this transitional period.
Alhaji Hammanadama Tukur, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Pilgrims’ Affairs, mentioned that the intending pilgrims have been thoroughly educated on the guidelines and expectations for the Hajj. He stated that uniforms have been provided to the pilgrims to facilitate easy identification and minimize instances of missing persons during the pilgrimage.
Tukur expressed gratitude to Governor Kefas for his unwavering support and assured that the board is dedicated to ensuring a seamless Hajj experience. Meanwhile, board chairman Gambo Alhaji Malami appealed to the state government to augment the number of seats allocated to board members and technical staff, describing the current allocation as insufficient. He expressed hope that the government would adopt the National Hajj Commission’s standard of 44 pilgrims per official, aligning with practices in other states.
This unfortunate event cast a shadow over the farewell ceremony in Jalingo, as the community grapples with the loss of these pilgrims who had prepared for a spiritual journey.