By Peter Omopo
The League of Imams and Alfas in Ogun State has issued a stern warning to the state’s 2025 Hajj pilgrims, urging them to uphold moral integrity and avoid actions that could tarnish the image of Nigeria while in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
In a statement released on Monday and signed by the League’s Secretary General, Alhaji Tajudeen Adewunmi, the President General, Shaykh Sikirullahi Babalola, reminded intending pilgrims that the Hajj pilgrimage is a sacred spiritual exercise requiring deep devotion, discipline, and adherence to Islamic principles.
“Hajj is not a tourism trip. It is an act of worship that demands complete submission to the will of Allah,” Shaykh Babalola stated. “Any form of misconduct can invalidate the spiritual benefits of the journey and damage the reputation of our state and nation.”
Addressing journalists in Abeokuta, the cleric urged pilgrims to strictly follow guidelines issued by the Saudi Arabian authorities, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), and the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
“Disobedience or noncompliance can disrupt not just your own Hajj but that of others,” he cautioned.
Babalola further advised the pilgrims to demonstrate Islamic values by helping the elderly, avoiding idle distractions, and focusing on acts of worship such as prayers, Qur’an recitation, and reflection.
He stressed that pilgrims are ambassadors of Nigeria and Ogun State, saying, “How you behave, speak, and interact will reflect on our entire country and religion. Let your conduct be a source of pride.”
The Islamic leader also urged respect for local laws and customs, and called for courteous interaction with pilgrims from other countries, emphasizing that Ogun pilgrims should leave a legacy of discipline, devotion, and dignity.
