My Investigation on the Alleged Accusation Against the Taraba Pilgrimage Board
By Olu Jacob
Following reports alleging that 22 Taraba State pilgrims were stranded in Amman, Jordan, due to corrupt practices, I took the time to investigate the matter thoroughly. My findings reveal that the claims are not only misleading but also fail to present the full picture.
Olu Jacob
First, let’s define the word stranded. According to the Oxford Dictionary, stranded means “left without the means to move from somewhere” or “helpless and abandoned.”” With this in mind, I ask the writer: what exactly do you mean by stranded?
The 22 pilgrims in Jordan are neither helpless nor abandoned. They are accommodated in one of the best hotels, enjoy sumptuous meals, and have guides, taking them to various holy sites. Even the so-called “stranded” pilgrims themselves have attested to this.
Out of the 144 Taraba pilgrims, 22 were not issued visas to enter Israel due to restrictions beyond the control of the state government. This issue was not unique to Taraba; other states, including Adamawa, faced similar challenges. Those affected were informed beforehand and were fully aware of the travel arrangements. Despite this, they have continued their pilgrimage in Jordan, visiting key holy sites and participating in scheduled activities.
Additionally, each pilgrim received $300 as Basic Travel Allowance (BTA), as originally approved. There was no unauthorized deduction, and all financial provisions by the state government were honoured. Any suggestion of mismanagement is baseless and does not align with the facts.
It is also important to understand that in the past, when pilgrimage was only to Israel, intending pilgrims who were denied visas had no choice but to return home, losing out completely. However, with the introduction of Jordan as part of the pilgrimage route, those who are unable to obtain Israeli visas are still able to have a meaningful and spiritually enriching experience in Jordan. Unlike Israel, Jordan rarely refuses visa allocation, making it possible for every pilgrim to participate in the journey rather than being turned back at the point of travel.
This is not the first time visa restrictions have affected Nigerian pilgrims. In 2022, some pilgrims from Taraba, Enugu, and Anambra states faced similar challenges. However, they still had a fulfilling spiritual experience in Jordan while others proceeded to Israel. The current situation follows the same arrangement, ensuring that no pilgrim is left without a meaningful pilgrimage experience.
It is important for journalists and news outlets to verify their information before publishing sensational claims that can mislead the public. Reports should be based on facts, not speculation. I urge those responsible for spreading this misinformation to seek clarification from relevant authorities before making accusations that could undermine the good efforts of the state government.
The Taraba State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas remains committed to the well-being of all pilgrims and will continue to ensure that every sponsored pilgrim has a fulfilling and spiritually enriching experience.
