Banditry: Sokoto Pilgrims Go Spiritual In Hajj

Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State is seeking divine intervention for the problem of banditry in the state through fervent prayers in Saudi Arabia.

Aliyu who visited the Sokoto State pilgrims in the tent city of Mina according to a statement issued by Abubakar Bawa, the Press Secretary to the governor also lauded the pilgrims for their law-abiding nature and commended the state’s Hajj contingents for being law-abiding citizens while in the holy land.

“Remember that you are still in the holy land where prayers are answered, so do not relent in including your state in your prayers so that we can deal with the banditry ravaging some local government areas of our dear state.

“As a government, we are committed and ready to pool all resources together in order to guarantee the safety of lives and property of our people, therefore, your prayers are highly needed, “Aliyu pleaded.

He expressed happiness on the way and manner the state’s pilgrims conducted themselves, by adhering strictly to Saudi rules and regulations.

According to him, none of the state’s pilgrim was reported to have breached any law, or indulged in any unbecoming behaviour that could have jeopardized the credibility of Nigeria and Sokoto State throughout their stay in the holy land.

“I’m really proud of all of you for being good ambassadors of not only Sokoto state but Nigeria as a whole.

“You have demonstrated maturity, discipline, high sense of responsibility as well as respect for the rules and regulations of both your home country and the host country,” Aliyu added

According to him, the decent manner and behaviour in which the state’s contingent behaved has earned the state a commendation from the National Hajji Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON)

He added that a report issued by the commission has placed Sokoto among the States with the most disciplined and responsible pilgrims in the federation.

He reminded the pilgrims of the need to continue with such beautiful attributes not only in the holy Land but in Nigeria as well.

He also reminded the state’s pilgrims of the need to intensify prayers for the peaceful coexistence of their fatherland especially on the myriad of challenges undermining its rapid growth and development.

He further assured pilgrims of their welfare while they await their return journey back home, and charged them to remain orderly, peaceful and calm while in the holy land.

While in Mina, Gov. Aliyu took time up to console the officials and pilgrims of Gada Local Government over the passing away of one of their pilgrims, while on pilgrimage and prayed to Almighty Allah to accept his good deeds and forgive all his shortcomings.

The governor also visited some sick pilgrims from Wamakko and Tambuwal local governments and promised them adequate health attention by health officials of the State.

Appreciating the entire state’s contingents for their support and cooperation gave to state pilgrims welfare agency and called for its sustenance.