2026 Hajj: Two Sokoto Women Die In Saudi Arabia

Two female pilgrims from Sokoto State have died in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, after the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj exercise.

The Deputy Amirul Hajj and Grand Khadi of Sokoto State, Alhaji Sodangi Acida, confirmed the development in a statement issued by the Head of Information and Communications of the Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Faruku Umar.

The deceased pilgrims were identified as Ladi Umar from Bodinga Local Government Area and Hadiza Umar from Yabo Local Government Area of the state.

Acida said two other female pilgrims involved in the same accident were receiving treatment at a hospital in Saudi Arabia.

According to him, one of the injured pilgrims is being treated for a fracture, while the other is receiving medical attention for an arm dislocation.

He conveyed the condolences of the Sokoto State Government to the families of the deceased pilgrims and prayed for Allah to forgive their shortcomings.

He also prayed that Allah grant them Aljannatul Firdaus.

The Deputy Amirul Hajj disclosed that the first batch of Sokoto pilgrims would depart Saudi Arabia for Nigeria on June 14.

He explained that the return journey would follow the principle of “first to arrive, first to depart.”

Acida urged all pilgrims to comply strictly with approved luggage regulations ahead of their return flights.

He reminded them that each pilgrim must ensure that their luggage does not exceed the stipulated 32-kilogram limit.

Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Ibrahim Umar JJ, expressed appreciation to Governor Ahmad Aliyu for his support towards the welfare of Sokoto pilgrims throughout the Hajj exercise.

He also commended members of the state delegation, the agency’s board and staff, as well as the pilgrims, for their cooperation and support.

According to him, their contributions helped ensure the successful conduct of the 2026 Hajj operation for pilgrims from the state.

The agency said arrangements were ongoing to ensure the smooth return of Sokoto pilgrims from Saudi Arabia in line with the approved flight schedule.