Nigeria Newspapers Online

One of the Lagos State pilgrims performing the 2024 Hajj in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mr. Oloshogbo Isiaka Idris, has lost his life on his return from Tawaf (circumabulation) of the Holy Kaaba in Makkah.

The painful loss was disclosed by the Secretary, Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr. Saheed Onipede, according to a statement from the board.

The deceased, a 68 years old pilgrim from Shomolu Local Government, died on Tuesday while eating his food in the evening (after Solat Maghrib).

Onipede emphasised that while the cause of his death was yet to be medically ascertained, the death might not be unconnected with high blood pressure (BP) and the stress he passed through during the Tawaf.

While extending the condolences of the state government to the immediate family and friends of the deceased, he prayed that Allah would forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljanat Fridaos as well as the reward of the Hajj, since he already had the intention.

The Board Secretary appealed to other pilgrims to exercise cautions and restrain from over-stressing themselves before the commencement of the real Hajj rites which are yet to be fulfilled.

The deceased has been buried in Makkah in line with laid down principles of Saudi Arabian authorities.

A Board member, Hon. Waheed Ololade Shonibare, led other state government officials and some pilgrims to observe janaza prayer for the pilgrim in Kaabah.

Meanwhile, the last batch of the pilgrims shall be proceeding to Makkah from Madinah on Thursday to continue other aspects of the spiritual exercise, after spending the mandatory four days allowed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for pilgrims to stay in Madinah.

Whilst in Madinah, the pilgrims embarked on various religious activities such as observing regular solat in Masjid Nabawih (Prophet’s Mosque), visitation to the Raodah (a special section) in the Mosque which has spiritual implications for any pilgrim that endeavours to visit as well as visitation to the tomb of the Prophet and his companions, to pray for them.

Other sites visited by pilgrims included Masjid Quba (the first Mosque built by the Prophet in Madinah); Masjid Qiblatain (Mosque with two qiblas); Mountain Huud (where Hamzat and many other companions were killed and buried) during a war with the unbelievers, amongst others.

Speaking on the conduct of the pilgrims in Madinah, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic matters, Dr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, stated that the pilgrims conducted themselves very well and hope that such exemplary conducts and behaviours would be extended to Makkah where they are expected to stay much longer.

Also, the Board Chairman, Imam (Engr.) Shakiru Ayinde Gafar, appreciated the pilgrims for their patience, endurance and perseverance.

He noted that the patience they have exhibited so far in Madinah which is in total control of NAHCON is highly encouraging. He assured them that the Board would ensure they enjoy substantial comfort throughout their stay in Makkah for the Hajj rites.