Increased Hajj Fare: ‘Avoid Temptation, don’t Seek Refund’, CSO Cautions Registered Pilgrims

Independent Hajj Reporters, IHR, has called on all intending pilgrims for Hajj 2024 to avoid the temptation of seeking a refund of their deposits in view of the sudden increase of N1.9 million.

The group in a statement by its national coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammed worried on Tuesday that hundreds of intending pilgrims who are rather at a loss with the latest development are left with no alternative.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, on Sunday issued the fresh fare increase few months after pilgrims completed their N4.9 million final deposits, attributing the development to increasing volatility of the exchange rate of dollar to naira.

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According to the statement, “IHR findings through our members across the country and discussions held with some state Hajj officials indicate that quiet a number of pilgrims have started asking for their deposits back.

“Our findings also shows that while some are asking for their deposits out of anger, others are saying they cannot raise the balance of N1.9 million within four days,” IHR said.

Further said “Our findings also revealed that some pilgrims are contemplating exploring legal options insisting that the Federal Government through the NAHCON had announced a final hajj fare of N4, 699 which they have paid in full within the stipulated time.

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“They argued that their receipt bears complete payment for 2024 hajj’ and therefore vow to ensure that they are taken to Saudi Arabia to perform 2024 Hajj”.

The CSO however advised the intending pilgrims not to rush into taking decisions out of anger and always give a chance for positive outcome.

“Already, IHR and other like-minded groups across the country have been calling for the intervention of President Tinubu and the President is known for listening to the yearnings of citizens

“What if you chose to collect your deposits and then the government intervenes afterwards, we urge you to please hold on and see how everything ends. Keep the faith and keep praying, for if Allah calls, one must answer,” IHR added.