The Association of Hajj Operators Nigeria (AHUON) has declared that it will not be swayed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON)’s questionable tactics to discredit its operations.
The AHUON asserts that it possesses compelling documentary evidence of agreements made with Ithraa al Joud Company, agreements they allege were executed without pressure. This raises questions about NAHCON‘s integrity and decision-making processes.
The controversy erupted when NAHCON expressed doubts about the fitness of Ithraa al Joud, a company previously endorsed by the commission. “If NAHCON now claims that Ithraa al Joud is unfit, why did they hastily sign the agreement?” Abdullahi Adamu, a spokesperson for AHUON, asked in a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, emphasising the apparent inconsistency in NAHCON’s stance. “t seems they only realised the company’s alleged shortcomings after the fact.”
The AHUON also criticised NAHCON for supporting a rival association that has recently changed its name from HUTOUN to HUTOUA, questioning the legitimacy of an organisation purportedly created to manipulate the current leadership.
For over a decade, AHUON has been a vocal advocate for its members’ rights and the welfare of pilgrims. The association said its frustrations with NAHCON’s practices are manifold, including allegations of pre-purchasing over 52,000 Hajj seats without having enough pilgrims to fill them, resulting in significant financial implications for the commission and the tour operators.
The group also demands accountability regarding refunds for unrendered services and is concerned about NAHCON‘s role as an operator, questioning where such authority is granted in the Establishment Act.
In a striking revelation, AHUON accused NAHCON of coercing the involvement of Ithraa al Joud despite their initial reservations. They highlighted that the company had promptly issued refunds for services not rendered, a process that NAHCON has yet to facilitate. „It appears that NAHCON‘s true intention is to frustrate AHUON and end the contract due to the company‘s refusal to engage in unethical practices,“ the spokesperson alleged.
Moreover, the association expressed concern over the politicisation of the National Assembly‘s recent establishment of an ad hoc committee to address complaints regarding Hajj operations. They criticised the involvement of political aides in the process, fearing that personal interests might overshadow the genuine needs of the pilgrims.
AHUON called on all stakeholders to prioritise the integrity of the Hajj industry over personal gains. „The Hajj should not be treated as an ATM,“ they urged, stressing the need for a transparent and efficient system that benefits all parties involved.
