The Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has issued a stern warning to 206 intending pilgrims from the state against engaging in drug trafficking and other prohibited activities during the 2025 Hajj to Saudi Arabia.

Alhaji Abdulaziz Igbinidu, the State Chairman of NSCIA, delivered this advisory message to the pilgrims who are scheduled to depart for Saudi Arabia on May 14, 2025.

"My advice to you is that as you are going for Hajj, this time is to be a good ambassador of Edo State and Nigeria," Igbinidu stated. "You should shun drug peddling because some people that attempted to push drugs there in the past paid dearly for it. So, they should follow the rules in order not to be a disgrace to Edo State and Nigeria."

The NSCIA chairman emphasized that Saudi Arabia has strict dos and don'ts, warning that any pilgrim who indulges in forbidden activities during the pilgrimage will face the full wrath of the law.

Igbinidu further urged the pilgrims to adhere to the regulations of the host country to ensure a successful Hajj and receive full spiritual rewards. He highlighted the importance of following guidance from accompanying officials to avoid missing any compulsory aspects of the pilgrimage.

"You should follow the advice of the officials that are accompanying you in order not to miss any of the compulsory aspects of the Hajj," he advised.

The annual Hajj pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam and is mandatory for Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey at least once in their lifetime.