The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Board announced on Sunday the unfortunate deaths of two of its pilgrims in Madina, Saudi Arabia.
The announcement, signed by the Executive Secretary Abdulsalam AbdulKabir, confirmed that one of the pilgrims, Hajia Hawawu, committed suicide, while the other, Saliu Mohammed, died of sudden illness.
The investigation by Saudi Arabian authorities revealed that Hajia Hawawu’s death resulted from “an unfortunate suicidal episode from the rooftop of her apartment in Madina.” Saliu Mohammed, who was part of Batch 3 of the state contingent, died in the intensive care unit of a public hospital after suddenly falling ill.
The board expressed deep sorrow over these events and extended its condolences to the families of the deceased. In a statement, the board emphasized its submission to the will and ultimate knowledge of Allah in all matters.
“The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Board sends heartfelt commiserations to the families of two of our pilgrims who returned to their Lord in Madina, Saudi Arabia,” the release read.
“Saliu Mohammed, who arrived with Batch 3 of the state contingent, died in an intensive care unit of a public hospital in Madina after suddenly falling ill; while Hajia Hawawu Mohammed (Batch 9) also died following what Saudi authorities have investigated and found to be an unfortunate suicidal episode from the rooftop of her apartment in Madina.”
The board’s statement further added, “The pilgrims’ board deeply regrets these sad events, but submits totally to the decree and ultimate knowledge of Allah in all affairs. The board sends profound condolences to their families and asks Allah to grant them comfort and forgive the deceased.”
These deaths add to the tally of Nigerian pilgrims who have passed away in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ahead of this year’s Hajj, set to commence on Friday. Previously, two pilgrims from Kebbi State, Hajiya Tawalkatu Busare Alako, known as Maman Biyu, and Alhaji Muhammad Suleman, passed away in Makkah. Additionally, a Lagos State pilgrim, 68-year-old Oloshogbo Isiaka Idris, died on May 28 after performing tawaf (circumambulation) as part of Umrah (lesser Hajj).
The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Board remains committed to providing support to the families of the deceased and ensuring the safety and well-being of its pilgrims during this sacred journey.
