Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has issued a stern warning to intending pilgrims to avoid money laundering and any form of criminal activity as they embark on their pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. Addressing the participants at a seminar organized by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and the Ministry of Home Affairs, Sanwo-Olu emphasized the severe penalties associated with money laundering.
The seminar, themed “Significance of Hajj in the Lifetime of Man,” took place in Ikeja and featured various speakers, including the governor’s representative, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN). “Conduct yourselves with respect and avoid behavior that will tarnish the image of our state and nation,” Sanwo-Olu cautioned, advising pilgrims to avoid carrying prohibited items such as hard drugs and kolanuts.
Sanwo-Olu also promised to cover the costs for sacrificial lambs, visits to holy sites, and the spiritual clothing for all pilgrims from Lagos State. He urged the pilgrims to pray for the success of President Tinubu’s administration and for peace and progress in Lagos. “Offer supplications for the success of our President and his administration’s efforts at rebuilding and developing our nation,” he said.
Mr. Olanrewaju Layode, Commissioner for Home Affairs, also addressed the 1,875 participants, urging them to maintain good conduct and uphold the legacy of previous pilgrims. In his lecture, Sheikh AbdulRahman Lukman, Chief Imam of Igbogbo Central Mosque, stressed the spiritual significance of Hajj, stating that it requires participants to be free of sins and to deeply understand and follow Allah’s teachings. “The purpose of Hajj is for spiritual benefits, it teaches one holiness and to have the fear of Allah during and after the Hajj,” he noted.