The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned the Chief Executive Officer of a popular travel agency, Alhaji Musa Bello, over allegations of defrauding over 100 intending pilgrims of N144 million meant for Hajj fares. Bello, who appeared before Justice Ahmed Mohammed of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, faces a six-count charge bordering on conspiracy, fraud, and breach of trust.
According to the EFCC, Bello’s company, Al-Nur Travels and Tours, allegedly collected the sum from pilgrims in 2024 but failed to secure their slots for the Hajj pilgrimage. Instead, the funds were reportedly diverted for personal use, leaving the victims stranded and unable to perform the religious obligation. “The defendant exploited the trust of innocent Nigerians, many of whom had saved for years to fulfill their religious duties,” EFCC prosecutor Rotimi Jacobs stated in court.
Bello pleaded not guilty to all charges, and his counsel, Barrister Ibrahim Suleiman, applied for bail, which was granted by the judge. The case has been adjourned to March 18, 2025, for further hearing.
The scandal has sparked outrage among the Muslim community, with many calling for stricter regulation of Hajj operators. “This is a betrayal of trust. These agencies must be held accountable to prevent such incidents in the future,” said Alhaji Sani Umar, a leader of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
NAHCON has since blacklisted Al-Nur Travels and Tours and assured affected pilgrims of its commitment to ensuring justice. “We are working with the EFCC to recover the funds and provide support to the victims,” a NAHCON spokesperson said.
The case highlights the challenges faced by Nigerian pilgrims, many of whom fall victim to fraudulent travel agencies every year. Authorities have urged intending pilgrims to only engage with NAHCON-approved operators and report any suspicious activities.
As the trial proceeds, many are hopeful that justice will be served, and measures will be put in place to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
More updates to follow as the case unfolds.
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