By Mahmoud
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has alleged that almost 75 per cent of funds released by the Federal Government for Christian and Muslim pilgrimages were stolen by officials responsible for managing the programmes.
Olukoyede disclosed this while addressing the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja, where the EFCC presented its Anti-Corruption Interfaith Manual. He said the alleged diversion was uncovered during investigations into the activities of the Christian and Muslim pilgrimage bodies. �
The Guardian Nigeria +1
The EFCC chairman described some of the discoveries made during the investigations as “mind-boggling”, but did not identify the specific location, period, amount involved or officials allegedly responsible for the diversion. The 75 per cent figure therefore remains an allegation attributed to the EFCC chairman, rather than an established court finding. �
Pulse Nigeria
The disclosure comes as preparations for the 2027 Hajj continue, with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) recently addressing separate allegations concerning the allocation of Hajj slots. NAHCON said Nigeria’s approved 2027 quota is 50,000 slots, comprising 35,000 for states and the FCT and 15,000 for licensed private operators. �
Punch Newspapers +1
Olukoyede urged religious leaders and pilgrimage administrators to strengthen financial controls and ensure that funds entrusted to religious and public institutions are used for their intended purposes. He also called on faith leaders to support the fight against corruption by promoting accountability and responsible management of funds. �
tribuneonlineng.com
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