Fraud Allegations Rock NAHCON as EFCC Detains Two Top Officials

Two senior officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) are in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged fraud linked to the 2025 Hajj exercise.

Top EFCC sources, who confirmed the arrests but requested anonymity, said the officials had been asked to return the funds in question but had so far failed to do so. “They are with us. We asked them to return the money they took, but they have yet to do so. That is why they remain in our custody” one source disclosed. The exact amount allegedly misappropriated has not been made public.

In a statement issued by its Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Usara, on behalf of NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, the commission reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and due process.

While the statement neither confirmed nor denied the detention, it noted that NAHCON maintains close working relationships with oversight and anti-graft agencies. “This cooperation is a standing principle of the commission’s operations and its belief in due process and the rule of law. The commission would not shield any staff or process found wanting” the statement read.

Usara urged the public and media to avoid speculation, stressing the importance of allowing investigations to run their course without resorting to what she described as “media trials.” She added: “We are confident that whatever the truth is, it will emerge through the appropriate channels. The commission remains focused on post-Hajj evaluations, addressing operational challenges, and strengthening measures to ensure even better service delivery in future Hajj operations”.

Efforts to reach EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, for official comments were unsuccessful as of press time.

This latest development comes months after former NAHCON Chairman, Jalal Arabi, was quizzed by the EFCC in August 2024 over allegations of mismanaging part of the ₦90bn released by the Federal Government to subsidise the 2024 Hajj. Shortly after, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) also arrested senior NAHCON officials in connection with the same funds.

President Bola Tinubu later dismissed Arabi in October 2024, appointing Prof. Usman as his successor.