Ganduje cautions Kano Muslim pilgrims against illegal luggage

Kano State governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has cautioned intending Muslim pilgrims to Hajj against falling victims of illegal luggage by drug cartels.

Ganduje, who was represented by the deputy governor, Nasiru Yusuf Gawna, cautioned the intending pilgrims during a prayer and sensitisation exercise.

The governor cited the incidence of Zainab Aliyu, who was indicted by drug cartels at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano and admonished the intending Muslim pilgrims to be extra vigilant in choosing partners and luggage, especially at the airports.

Ganduje urged the visitors of the holy mosques to abide by Saudi Arabia diplomatic rules and regulations and be worthy ambassadors of Kano at the holy land.

He assured them that the government has planned a befitting welfare package for an hitch-free exercise through the pilgrim’s board, in Makka and Medina.

Ganduje announced the donation of 50 Riyadh to each pilgrim from Kano as government gesture to complement their basic travel allowance.

Also speaking, executive secretary, Kano state Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mohammad Abba Danbatta said the practical demonstration of Hajj activities marks the end of preparation prior to departure for Saudi Arabia.

Abba explained that 318 Islamic scholars were deployed to 32 centres to educate intending pilgrims on the regiment of hajj.

The executive secretary noted that the board has so far refunded over N100 million shortfalls to pilgrims as directed by National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

“Well befitting accommodation and feeding arrangement in Makka and Medina are prepared. Our visa is ready and we don’t have any problem. We can only advise our pilgrims to abide by the rules and regulations of Saudi Arabia”. Abba explained.

Meanwhile, the first batch of intending pilgrims from Kano will depart Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano on Friday.