Pilgrims Deportation Sad, Disheartening — Shema

Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema of Katsina State has lent his voice to the? series of condemnation that have trailed the recent decision of the Saudi Arabian? authority to deport some Nigerian female pilgrims, describing the situation as unfortunate, just as he urged the host country to reconsider its decision.

The governor, who spoke shortly after he was briefed by the state Amirul Hajj (leader of the Hajj team), Justice Umar Abdullahi, said it was disheartening, and enjoined Muslim clerics to engage in sustained prayers to ensure an amicable resolution of the matter.

Shema lauded the federal government for its prompt intervention through the constitution of a high-powered committee led by the speaker of the House of Representatives, and appealed to the affected pilgrims to “put their faith in the Almighty Allah, saying that everything will soon be resolved.”

He said the state government would ensure that every necessary step would be taken to fly the affected pilgrims back to Saudi Arabia when the matter is resolved. He, however, added that “when that does not happen they will be guaranteed seats next year.”

Earlier, the state Amirul Hajj, who is also a former president of the Court of Appeal, Justice Umar Abdullahi, confirmed that 160 female pilgrims from the state had been deported, saying that those who were affected looked dejected, tired and humiliated, adding, “Nigeria cannot just sit down and see things continue this way.”