The National Hajj Commission issued a statement on Thursday cautioning politicians against participation in any political activity, such as debates and rallies, that could jeopardize the sanctity of Saudi Arabia’s Holy Mosque.
The activity of certain Nigerian politicians exhibiting posters of their candidates in the main mosque in Makkah during the Ramadan Umrah (lesser Hajj) was described by the organization as a sacrilege that would result in punishment if caught.
The warning was given by NAHCON spokesperson Fatima Usara, who cautioned parliamentarians that “Saudi Arabian authorities are very strict on any form of politicking while in their land.
She explained that NAHCON leadership had observed with dismay the unfortunate trend where politicians displayed posters of their candidates in the grand mosque in Makkah.
“Kindly recall that the Saudi Arabian authorities are very strict on any form of politicking, while in their land especially not in the Holy Kaabah where devotees engage in solemn prayers.”
The statement continued, “This action is tantamount to the desecration of a religious sanctuary which attracts penalties when apprehended. Hence, in the actors’ interest and Nigeria’s image, pilgrims are cautioned to desist from such illegal activities please.”
