The start of this year's Hajj pilgrimage has been met with sadness for some Nigerian families, as two pilgrims, Shu'aibu Jibrin from Kano State and Jamila Muhammad from Plateau State, have tragically passed away in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Their deaths occurred just before or as the sacred rituals commenced, casting a somber shadow over what is typically a joyous spiritual journey.

Shu'aibu Jibrin, a farmer from Gargai in Bebeji Local Government Area, Kano, died on Tuesday in a Saudi hospital after a brief illness. His death was confirmed by Malam Suleiman Dederi, spokesperson for the Kano State Pilgrim Welfare Board. Sama'uddin Aliyu Kadawa, a relative also on the pilgrimage, shared the heartbreaking details. While Jibrin had a history of ulcer and hypertension, doctors at the hospital confirmed he succumbed to cardiac arrest and heart failure. Aliyu recounted that Jibrin's health initially improved after an admission to King Abdulazeez Hospital, but tragically worsened, leading to his passing despite the efforts of medical teams.

In a separate incident, Jamila Muhammad, a pilgrim from Plateau State, also passed away in Mecca on Monday. Daiyabu Dauda, the executive secretary of Plateau State's Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, confirmed her death, stating she died at King Abdul'aziz Hospital due to complications from diabetes. Dauda explained that she received immediate medical attention, but unfortunately, her condition proved fatal. Jamila was laid to rest in Mecca according to Islamic rites, with Dauda extending condolences to her grieving family.

These unfortunate events highlight the inherent risks that can accompany the Hajj pilgrimage, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. The Hajj, which runs from June 4th to June 8th this year, is a monumental undertaking, and the welfare boards of both Kano and Plateau states are working to support the families of the deceased during this difficult time.

Source: https://saharareporters.com/2025/06/04/kano-pilgrim-dies-mecca-less-24-hours-hajj-starts