*Final Batch Departs For Medina Ahead Of Makkah Trip Today
By Stephen Gbadamosi, Ibadan
A total of 945 persons from Oyo State have successfully completed the Umrah (lesser pilgrimage) in Makkah in continuation of their Hajj religious obligations.
A statement by the state Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, on Monday, noted that the last batch of the pilgrims who were currently in Medina, were expected to join their counterparts in Makkah today (Tuesday,12 May) for similar exercises.
The three batches, received warmly by the representatives of the Saudi Arabian government, performed Umrah with little or no stress under the tutelage of renowned scholars from the state and beyond.
Addressing the third batch of pilgrims before departing Medina for Makkah on Sunday, the Chairman, Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Sheikh Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, expressed concern over attitudes and approach of some Nigerian pilgrims to Hajj exercises.
He emphasised that Nigerian pilgrims, particularly those from the South-West region, needed to put aside social activities during Hajj, and focus solely on worshipping Allah “Who made the journey possible for them.”
He called on pilgrims from Oyo State to seek spiritual growth continually and rededicate themselves to the cause of Allah, emphasizing the need for the pilgrims to create time to rest and perform the required obligations in modest.
Sheikh Olamide also warned against unnecessary movement during the day, considering the weather conditions of the host country and cities.
The Chairman appreciated the governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for his tremendous support, and others whose support and advice had significantly contributed to the progress and success recorded so far.
Ninety-one pilgrims, led by the Chairman of the Board, are expected to be in Makkah today to make a total of 1,036 pilgrims participating in 2026 Hajj from Oyo State –a figure that put the state in the forefront among the participating states from the South-West.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Some pilgrims. File photo.
