Chairman’s investigation, not an indictment

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has said that the invitation of its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Jalal Arabi, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to give accounts of the Federal Government’s N90bn Hajj subsidy, was not an indictment but “a normal process of safeguarding public interest”.

The commission stated this on Wednesday in a statement signed by the Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Fatima Usara.

The According reported that the anti-graft agency on Tuesday, interrogated Arabi, over alleged mismanagement of the 2024 Hajj exercise funds, among others, at its headquarters in Jabi.

Confirming the invitation of the anti-graft agency, Usara said the commission will continue to cooperate with any investigative body during the process.

She added the commission remained committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and ethics in its dealings while appreciating the Federal Government for entrenching accountability in the system.

The statement read in part, “While this situation might have understandably caused some concerns among friends and well-wishers, the Commission would like to reassure its stakeholders that the invitation was a normal process of safeguarding the public interest, and that investigation is not an indictment. NAHCON will continue to cooperate fully with any investigative body during this process.

“NAHCON is immensely grateful for the outpouring of support and understanding from well-wishers towards its Chairman.

“As an organization, the Hajj Commission remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity and ethics in its dealings.

“Pilgrims have always been at the heart of our engagements, and we are committed to maintaining the trust and confidence that the government placed in the commission.”

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