The Sokoto State Muslim community has been thrown into mourning following the death of two female pilgrims in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, shortly after the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.
The deceased pilgrims were identified as Ladi Umar from Bodinga Local Government Area and Hadiza Umar from Yabo Local Government Area of Sokoto State. Their deaths were confirmed by the Deputy Amirul Hajj and Grand Khadi of Sokoto State, Alhaji Sodangi Acida, in a statement issued through the Head of Information and Communications of the Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Faruku Umar.
According to the statement, the two women lost their lives in an accident that also involved two other female pilgrims from the state. The injured pilgrims are currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Saudi Arabia. Officials disclosed that one of the survivors is being treated for a fracture, while the other suffered an arm dislocation and remains under medical observation.
The incident occurred after pilgrims had successfully completed the major rites of Hajj, including prayers at Arafat, the symbolic stoning of the devil at Mina, and other religious obligations associated with the annual pilgrimage. The tragedy has cast a shadow over what had otherwise been described as a successful Hajj exercise for pilgrims from Sokoto State.
Expressing grief over the development, Alhaji Sodangi Acida conveyed the condolences of the Sokoto State Government to the families of the deceased and the entire Muslim community. He prayed for Allah’s mercy upon the departed pilgrims, asking that their shortcomings be forgiven and that they be granted Aljannatul Firdaus, the highest level of paradise in Islamic belief.
The Grand Khadi also offered prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured pilgrims and assured families that authorities were closely monitoring their treatment and welfare in Saudi Arabia.
Despite the unfortunate incident, preparations are ongoing for the return of Nigerian pilgrims from the Holy Land. Acida announced that the first batch of pilgrims from Sokoto State is expected to depart Saudi Arabia for Nigeria on June 14. He explained that the return operation would follow the established “first to arrive, first to depart” principle to ensure an orderly evacuation process.
He further reminded pilgrims to comply strictly with luggage regulations established by the relevant authorities. According to him, each pilgrim is required to adhere to the approved baggage limit of 32 kilograms to avoid delays and logistical challenges during the return journey.
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Ibrahim Umar JJ, commended the efforts of the state government, particularly Governor Ahmad Aliyu, for providing support and resources that contributed to the welfare of pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage period.
He also praised members of the state Hajj delegation, officials of the Pilgrims Welfare Agency, medical personnel, support staff, and the pilgrims themselves for their cooperation and discipline during the exercise. According to him, their collective efforts played a significant role in ensuring the successful coordination of the 2026 Hajj operation.
The annual Hajj pilgrimage attracts millions of Muslims from around the world to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. While Saudi authorities implement extensive safety and health measures to protect pilgrims, the large crowds, demanding travel schedules, and physical nature of the pilgrimage can sometimes result in accidents, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen incidents.
As the return phase of the pilgrimage begins, prayers and tributes continue to pour in for the deceased pilgrims, while families and officials remain hopeful for the full recovery of those receiving treatment. The Sokoto State Government has pledged to continue supporting affected families and ensuring the safe return of all remaining pilgrims from the Holy Land.
