Hajj allegations: Benue suspends pilgrims board chair, secretary

The Benue State Executive Council has approved the suspension of the Chairman and Executive Secretary of the Benue State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board over allegations bordering on the misuse of Hajj slots and mismanagement of funds.

The council also approved the appointment of Ahmed Adamu as acting chairman and Adamu Babi as acting Executive Secretary to oversee the affairs of the board pending the outcome of investigations.

The development was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Solomon Iorpev.

The statement said the suspended officials would remain out of office for three months with effect from September 21, 2026.

“The suspensions follow petitions alleging misuse of the allocation of Hajj slots and mismanagement of funds.

“The petition against the Executive Secretary also alleges irregularities in the distribution of government palliatives.

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“If found to be true, the allegations would amount to serious misconduct, contrary to the principles of public service, accountability, transparency and probity,” the statement read.

The commissioner said the suspension was intended to allow for a thorough investigation and prevent interference with the process.

He added that the action did not amount to a finding of guilt against the affected officials.

The suspended officials were directed to hand over all government property in their custody to the acting officers with immediate effect.

“The Benue State Government under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia reaffirms its commitment to transparency, accountability and the proper management of public resources, particularly those connected to the welfare of intending pilgrims in the state,” the statement added.

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