The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained key officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) over allegations of massive fraud related to the 2025 Hajj exercise. Among those in custody are Aliu Abdulrazak, the Commissioner of Policy, Personnel, and Finance, and Aminu Y. Muhammed, NAHCON’s Director of Finance and Accounts.
The arrests follow intense investigations into a reported ₦50 billion misappropriation during the conduct of Nigeria’s Hajj operations. Allegations include unauthorized extra-budgetary spending, fund diversion, and inflated expenses on items such as tents, accommodations, and allowances for officials and stakeholders.
The issue drew increased scrutiny following complaints from the Forum of Chief Executives of State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions, describing the 2025 Hajj exercise as a “total failure” under the current NAHCON leadership. The forum brought forward several areas of concern directly related to corruption and financial mismanagement, now the subject of EFCC probes.
Senior officials, including Deputy Directors and legal advisers, have also undergone interrogation during ongoing efforts to uncover the full scope of the alleged fraud. The EFCC has emphasized its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
Affected stakeholders and staff within the commission have called for swift action, urging President Bola Tinubu to consider restructuring NAHCON’s leadership to restore integrity and proper governance ahead of future pilgrimages.
The EFCC continues to investigate and is expected to take further legal actions as the probe progresses.
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