Muslims in Enugu State have appealed to Gov. Peter Mbah to establish a pilgrim board for the 2025 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
The Director of the Islamic Centre, Enugu, Alh. Musa Ani, made the appeal while addressing journalists in Enugu on Saturday.
Ani urged Mbah to address concerns affecting Muslims in Enugu by constituting a pilgrim board for the 2025 Hajj exercise.
He noted that no Muslim from Enugu State attended the 2024 pilgrimage due to the absence of a functional board.
“We look up to the governor to form the pilgrim board so Muslims can attend the 2025 pilgrimage.
“We also appeal to him to fulfil promises made during his campaign, including sponsoring pilgrims for Hajj,” he said.
Ani described Islam as a peaceful faith and expressed appreciation for the support of previous Enugu governors.
Mohammed Lawan, Coordinator of the Council of Ulama and Imams, Enugu Chapter, acknowledged internal issues regarding the pilgrim board.
Lawan said the matter involved stakeholders from the Council of Ulama and Imams, and was being addressed internally.
“There have been disagreements, with some trying to take full control, causing delays in forming the board,” he explained.
He added that Governor Mbah was awaiting full resolution before taking action on the pilgrim board.
Lawan stated that Enugu State has 27 Juma’at mosques and seven Eid grounds, including one at 9th Mile, Udi Council.
“Our Eid locations include Uwani, Enugu Correctional Centre, 82 Division, 103 Battalion, and Mopol Barracks,” he said.
He noted that the Islamic Centre in Uwani has existed since 1936 and remains a place of peaceful worship.
“We remain law-abiding and committed to working with the Enugu State Government for mutual progress,” Lawan said.
