The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has confirmed the invitation of its Chairman/CEO, Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for the conduct of the recently held 2024 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and expressed appreciation for the concern shown for the chairman.
It was reported on Tuesday that the anti-graft agency invited Arabi for questioning on how the N90 billion subsidy approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this year’s Hajj was expensed.
It was learned that the chairman was asked to report at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, by 10 am yesterday for interaction with the anti-corruption commission’s interrogators.
Reacting to the development, the Hajj body, in a statement released today and signed by its Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Fatima Sanda Usara, stated that the EFCC’s invitation was a normal process of safeguarding the public interest, adding that the investigation was not an indictment.
According to Usara, NAHCON would continue to cooperate fully with any investigative body during the process and assure that the commission remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity and ethics in its dealings.
“The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) would like to express its heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming concern shown for its Chairman, Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi after news broke out that he was invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for questioning. The outpour of love and concern was amazing.
“Indeed, the NAHCON helmsman was invited yesterday, July 30th, for questioning surrounding the conduct of the 2024 Hajj.
“While this situation might have understandably caused some concerns among friends and well-wishers, the Commission would like to reassure its stakeholders that the invitation was a normal process of safeguarding the public interest and that the investigation is not an indictment.
“NAHCON will continue to cooperate fully with any investigative body during this process,” Usara stated.
Reiterating the fact that pilgrims are at NAHCON’s engagements, Usara assured that the commission is committed to maintaining the government’s trust and confidence in it.
According to her, “NAHCON is immensely grateful for the outpouring of support and understanding from well-wishers towards its chairman.
“As an organisation, the Hajj Commission remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity and ethics in its dealings.
“Pilgrims have always been at the heart of our engagements, and we are committed to maintaining the trust and confidence that the government placed in the Commission.”
While appreciating the government’s resolve to entrench accountability in the system, the commission commended the EFCC’s commitment to safeguarding public funds.
“At this juncture, NAHCON would like to appreciate the Federal Government for its unwavering resolve to entrench accountability in the system.
“Similarly, NAHCON commends the EFCC’s strong commitment to safeguarding public funds through ethical practices and compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
“NAHCON will continue to cooperate with all institutions tasked with the responsibility of sanitising public service for more efficient services.
“Be rest assured that this matter will be resolved promptly and that our adherence to transparency, lawfulness, and ethical standards will be reaffirmed.”
ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
•Says Nigeria must prioritise technical skills over paper qualifications •Speaks on tenure at OSCOTECH Dr.…
Professor Hassan Salihu is of the Department of Political Science, University of Ilorin. He is…
Omolola Lipede is the Chief Programme Officer at Kayode Alabi Leadership Initiative (KLCI), the Regional…
At the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) in Effurun, Delta State, fresh matriculants sat in neat…
Good manners or etiquettes include a range of behaviours that promote respect, kindness and consideration…
Nigerian jollof rice is a beloved dish across West Africa, and when infused with a…
This website uses cookies.