 has detained the Finance Commissioner and a Director of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) over their alleged involvement in a staggering ₦50 billion fraud linked to){kind=link}
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained the Finance Commissioner and a Director of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) over their alleged involvement in a staggering ₦50 billion fraud linked to the 2025 Hajj exercise.
Sources disclosed that the top officials were picked up in Abuja after investigators uncovered suspicious transactions tied to funds meant for pilgrim welfare and logistics. The arrest follows mounting complaints from stakeholders over alleged mismanagement of resources during this year’s Hajj operations.
EFCC operatives are said to be scrutinizing how the multi-billion naira funds earmarked for accommodation, feeding, and transport of Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia were diverted. Preliminary findings reportedly reveal a complex web of questionable transfers and contracts awarded without due process.
Although the EFCC is yet to issue an official statement, insiders hinted that the detained officials may face charges bordering on conspiracy, diversion of public funds, and abuse of office once investigations are concluded.
The development has sparked nationwide reactions, with calls for transparency and accountability in NAHCON’s management of pilgrims’ affairs. Civil society groups are demanding that the Federal Government overhaul the commission to restore public trust.
This is not the first time NAHCON has come under the spotlight. However, the sheer scale of the alleged fraud—₦50 billion—makes it one of the biggest scandals in the history of Nigeria’s Hajj operations.
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