The Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) is urging the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to take action against individuals spreading fake news about recruitment for Hajj activities.
A statement signed by the National coordinator IHR, Mr Ibrahim Mohammed highlighted instances of fraudulent information being circulated, such as claims of free Hajj sponsorship by the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and fake recruitment announcements among others.
The statement further emphasizes the need for arrests and prosecution of those responsible for disseminating false information, noting that it can have diplomatic implications and cause distractions from important tasks related to hajj operation.
IHR recalled that NAHCON had recently issued a statement to debunk a fake news item about recruitment of Nurses for the 2024 Hajj being promoted by fraudulent individuals.
It commends NAHCON for issuing disclaimers but stresses the importance of tracking down and holding accountable those using Hajj as a guise for fraudulent activities.