A renowned Islamic scholar, Professor Mansur Ibrahim Sokoto, has expressed concern over the lack of transparency in administering sacrificial animals (Hadaya) for Nigerian pilgrims during Hajj.
Speaking to Freedom Radio in Makkah, he said the Hadaya, which is a compulsory rite, is often mishandled by individuals and groups who fail to uphold its religious significance. Some pilgrims, he noted, even resort to fasting due to the inability to properly execute their sacrifices despite receiving $500 as basic travel allowance.
Sokoto warned that many pilgrims fall victim to fraud, as some individuals collect as little as 200 to 300 Saudi Riyals for the sacrifice, far below the 500 to 600 Riyals actually required. He further alleged that even state-organised Hadaya arrangements are sometimes compromised, with some officials receiving incentives from Saudi suppliers to manipulate the actual number of animals slaughtered.
The scholar called on the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to take full responsibility by including Hadaya costs in the overall Hajj fare, selecting credible suppliers, and ensuring proper monitoring. He also advised NAHCON to provide male pilgrims with Ihram garments, educate female pilgrims on appropriate non-transparent clothing, and step up enlightenment efforts to better prepare pilgrims for their religious obligations.
