Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, has issued a stern warning to intending pilgrims from the state for the 2025 Hajj, cautioning them against any conduct that could tarnish Nigeria’s image.
The governor’s message was delivered during the farewell ceremony for the pilgrims on Sunday in Gombe by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibrahim Njodi.
Governor Yahaya specifically warned against drug trafficking, emphasizing Saudi Arabia’s strict penalties.
“Anybody caught carrying prohibited items, especially narcotic drugs, whose penalty in Saudi Arabia is death, should have himself/herself to blame,” he stated.
The governor urged pilgrims to avoid being unknowingly used as conduits for illicit trade, noting that such actions would damage both Gombe’s and Nigeria’s reputation.
“I call on you not to engage in any illegal act that would tarnish your image and that of our dear state and country,” Yahaya said. “You should therefore be extra careful not to be dragged into such tragedy by unscrupulous and unpatriotic individuals.”
The governor also advised the pilgrims to demonstrate patriotism by obeying Saudi authorities and adhering to Hajj regulations, warning that misconduct would lead to sanctions. He directed officials of the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board to diligently oversee the pilgrims’ welfare.
The Executive Secretary of the board, Mr. Saadu Hassan, announced that 957 pilgrims from Gombe would perform the 2025 Hajj, with the first batch of 512 departing on Monday and the remaining 445 on Tuesday.
The Emir of Dukku, Alhaji Haruna Rashid II, who chairs the pilgrims’ board, commended Governor Yahaya for his support in ensuring a smooth Hajj process for the state’s pilgrims.
