By Ayodele Oni
As the airlift of Muslims to Mecca continues, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has tasked State Pilgrims Welfare Boards to collaborate with the National Drüg Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to curb smuggling of prohibited items into Saudi Arabia.
The Executive Chairman of NAHCON, Malam Jalal Arabi, made the call in a statement issued by the Commission’s Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Mrs Fatima Usara, on Thursday in Abuja.
Arabi emphasized the need for State authorities to work with other related agencies in ensuring that persons planning to smuggle prohibited items into Saudi Arabia are apprehended.
This, according to him, will guard against embarrassment on Nigeria, as it causes delay during screening of pilgrims in both countries.
Arabi said “intending pilgrims for the 2024 Hajj have been cautioned against travelling with illícit drügs, kolanüts and Cígarëtte into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“Pilgrims have been reminded that as a nation deeply rooted in religious and cultural heritage, Saudi Arabia holds strict laws against drug trafficking, penalty for which is death.
“NAHCON wishes to remind pilgrims that the purpose of the trip to Saudi Arabia is for worship, therefore they should not be distracted by acts that will violate the sanctity of their Hajj.
“Hajj period is a time for spiritual reflection and prayers that should be approached with respect for the laws and customs of the host country.”
The NAHCON boss also warned intending pilgrims to beware of being used as conduit for any illicit trade without their knowledge.
He added that “pilgrims have also been advised to be extra vigilant over their bags at the airport to avoid implantation of prohibited items in their luggage unawares.”
He urged pilgrims to uphold their honour and dignity and that of the country, saying “any individual caught smuggling prohibited items not only brings shame upon themselves but also tarnishes the reputation of the nation.”
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