From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The Independent Hajj Reporters, civil society organisation has called for investigation into the activities of Mr. Yakubu Oga Ene, the Secretary of Enugu State Muslim pilgrims board over allegation of embezzlement of pilgrims’ funds.
This was contained in a statement jointly signed by its National Coordinator Ibrahim Muhammad and Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Mahmoud.
It said, “Independent Hajj Reporters is calling for investigation into the fraudulent activities of Mr. Yakubu Oga Ene, the current secretary of Enugu State Muslim Pilgrims Board and his former Executive Secretary over allegation of embezzlement of pilgrims funds.
“In 2012 and 2013, Mr. Yakubu Oga Ene allegedly collected money and issued a receipt to over 40 pilgrims, but failed to give them hajj seat. However, we are worried and surprised that the Enugu state police command is yet to respond to the cry of the pilgrims.
“In addition, in this year hajj, Mr. Yakubu allegedly refused to pay the full BTA to some Enugu State pilgrims, where he allegedly remove 250 dollar each from their Basic Travelling Allowance”, it further stated.
“Our investigation reveals that Enugu state police command is complicit in the case, by refusing to act. In view of the above, we are calling on Inspector general of police to take over the case and ensure that Mr. Yakubu is made to face the law”, it added.
The statement further cautioned hajj officials to desist from short changing pilgrims to avoid the wrath of Almighty Allah. Pilgrims are guest of Allah and whoever short change or cheat them will definitely vomit what he/she has wrongfully taken from pilgrims.
The groups further urged NAHCON to suspend any transaction with the current leadership of Enugu Pilgrims Board until a competent and honest leadership is constituted. It also advised other South-South and South-East to constitute a proper board with administrative structure to handle hajj affairs like their counterpart from south west.
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