A 75-year-old Nigerian pilgrim from Edo State, Mrs. Adizatu Dazumi, has died during the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The incident occurred shortly after she performed Tawaaf, the ritual circumambulation around the Kaaba, in Makkah. She was admitted to King Fahad General Hospital on Sunday and passed away the following day. Her death underscores the health risks associated with the physically demanding pilgrimage, especially for elderly participants.
Circumstances Surrounding the Death
Mrs. Dazumi hailed from Jattu Uzairue in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State. According to the Chairman of the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Malam Musah Uduimoh, she fell ill shortly after completing the Tawaaf. Despite receiving medical attention at King Fahad General Hospital, she succumbed to her illness on Monday. In accordance with Islamic traditions, she was buried in Makkah on the same day, and her family has been informed of the development.
Health Risks During Hajj
The Hajj pilgrimage is a physically demanding journey that can pose significant health risks, particularly for elderly pilgrims. The combination of extreme heat, physical exertion, and large crowds can exacerbate existing health conditions. In recent years, there have been multiple reports of pilgrims suffering from heatstroke, dehydration, and other health-related issues during Hajj.
In 2024, a deadly heatwave during Hajj resulted in the deaths of at least 1,301 pilgrims, with temperatures in Mecca reaching up to 51.8°C. This extreme heat caused numerous cases of heatstroke and dehydration among pilgrims from various countries.
NAHCON’s Warnings and Preparations
In anticipation of the 2025 Hajj, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) issued warnings to intending pilgrims about the risks of extreme heat. The commission advised pilgrims to take necessary precautions, including staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun.
NAHCON also emphasized the importance of medical preparedness, urging pilgrims to undergo health screenings before embarking on the pilgrimage. The commission’s efforts aim to mitigate health risks and ensure the safety of Nigerian pilgrims during Hajj.
Challenges Faced by Nigerian Pilgrims
Apart from health risks, Nigerian pilgrims have faced other challenges during the 2025 Hajj. Reports indicate that Nigeria experienced accommodation difficulties in Makkah due to issues with the Saudi electronic Nusuk platform. This led to the loss of premium accommodations, forcing officials to secure alternative housing for pilgrims.
Additionally, there were concerns about visa suspensions for Nigerian pilgrims. However, the Nigerian government clarified that the suspension affected only certain visa categories and did not impact official Hajj visas. The government assured that no Nigerian pilgrim would be denied access to perform the 2025 Hajj.
Conclusion
The death of Mrs. Adizatu Dazumi during the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage highlights the importance of health preparedness and awareness of the challenges associated with the journey. As the Hajj continues to attract millions of pilgrims worldwide, it is crucial for authorities and individuals to prioritize health and safety measures to prevent such tragedies.
