As part of his farewell address to the 2025 intending pilgrims from Gombe State, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, has issued a stern warning against drug trafficking and the carriage of prohibited items during the pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The governor, who spoke on Sunday, during a formal send-off ceremony for the pilgrims, cautioned them to avoid any actions that could tarnish their image or that of the state and the country.
Represented by Secretary to Government of Gombe State Professor Ibrahim Njodi, Yahaya said “Let me be clear: anyone caught with prohibited substances, particularly narcotics, should be ready to face the full consequences.”
The governor continued saying “In Saudi Arabia, the penalty for drug trafficking is death. We will not intervene on behalf of anyone who willfully violates this law.”
He further urged pilgrims to exercise extreme caution and not to accept or carry any luggage or package that they are not fully familiar with.
“Do not allow yourselves to be used by unscrupulous individuals. Refuse to carry any bag or item that you do not personally know the contents of, no matter who asks you,” the governor emphasised.
Governor Yahaya lamented the damage caused in the past by a few unpatriotic individuals whose illegal activities have not only endangered their own lives but have also brought shame to the nation.
“We must uphold the dignity and reputation of Gombe State and Nigeria at all times. Your conduct in the Holy Land reflects on all of us,” he said.
While announcing the government’s 200 Saudi Riyal gift to the 957 pilgrims, “Finally, His Excellency has directed that I announce for your barka da sallah the sum of 200 Saudi Riyal for each pilgrim,” he added.
Also speaking, Executive Secretary Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board Sa’ad Hassan, expressed optimism on the takeoff of no fewer 957.
He said, “We are already on course because we are going on our first flight tomorrow Monday, was earlier scheduled today but due to some reasons we shifted it till Monday we will have our first flight.
“All document that enables pilgrimage are ready because right now they are trying to reprint their boarding pass, immediately we are done they will move to the hajj camp give them their documents and travelling allowances.
“We have 957 pilgrims and the first flight is 512 though it use to be 550, Bauchi people will come to join us tomorrow in Gombe.”
Speaking further Hassan urged the Pilgrims to exhibit decorum, “Pilgrims should behave themselves and make sure they are conversant with the rules of Nigeria, Saudi Arabia and any other regulation that is required to make their hajj hitch-free,” he added.
On his part, Emir of Dukku, Alhaji Haruna Rashid II, who doubles as chairman of the board lauded the Gombe State Government for its effort in making pilgrims’ journey eventful.
“We thank the governor for the support to the pilgrims,” he added.
