The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opened a probe into Prof. Saleh Abdullahi Usman, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), over alleged massive financial impropriety tied to the 2025 Hajj operations.
Media reports revealed that, “Usman presented himself at the EFCC headquarters earlier today in response to a formal invitation.”
He was later freed on administrative bail but instructed to report daily to the Commission while the probe continues.
The investigation comes amid growing allegations of corruption in the Commission, including claims of misappropriation and diversion of more than N50 billion.
Details of the accusations point to the unauthorised allocation of N25 billion for Masha’ir tents, N7.9 billion for contingency housing and N1.6 billion in travel allowances for officials’ spouses.
Last month, the EFCC detained NAHCON’s Commissioner for Policy, Personnel and Finance, Aliu Abdulrazak, and the Director of Finance and Accounts, Aminu Y. Muhammed, in connection with the scandal.
Both men are reportedly assisting investigators with relevant information.
Although Usman has not been officially charged, sources within the Villa confirmed his presidential security pass has been withdrawn until the inquiry is concluded—signalling the gravity of the case to the government.
During an earlier session before the House of Representatives at a public hearing, the NAHCON Chairman acknowledged there were “dirty deals” in the organisation but pledged to back efforts promoting openness and accountability.
In a statement, NAHCON stressed that the commission “will not shield any staff or process found wanting” and assured full collaboration with concerned agencies.
According to The Guardian, the Commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, when asked for the confirmation, said he would get back but yet to respond.
