These are pilgrims from Lagos State on Arafat day during this years haj. This special day is the main reasons for muslim pilgrimage. It is why a muslim will spend millions to go to the holy land to seek the forgiveness and mercy of Allah through repentance from all sins committed.
Under the Amirul Haj AbdulHakeem and his board members, Alhaja Simbiat Kolarinwa; Dr. Araromi Yussuf; Dr. Ashiru and Alhaja Buari Balikis Adewunmi, there was no time for merriment in this year’s haj on Arafat day.
Only God know why the Amirul haj changed gear this time.
While Arafat day prayer lasted between 10:00am and 6pm in previous editions, this year it was scheduled for 7:00am immediately after the morning prayers and did not end until about 5pm.
It was prayer/lecture galore yet no one was bored.
In English and Yoruba languages, eloquent Islamic scholars and brilliant missioners delivered powerful lectures and prayers to 2000 Lagos pilgrims comprising distinguished personalities from all walks of life notably the public servants, politicians, the professionals, business and industrial communities etc. Each pilgrim had something to take to heart from the lectures and the prayers as Ulamas and Alfas recited the koran.
Thereafter, there was enough food for every pilgrim, locally prepared, and well served. There was no grumbling, no one was left out. Everything was perfectly organized and discharged by the coordinators.
Pictures do not tell lies Oriwu Sun captured these exclusive shots of various cross sections of activities on this particular memorable day.
Enjoy the visuals.
Doing what he knows how to do best, Dr. Abdullateef addressed Lagos pilgrims shortly after the NAHCOM officials visited Lagos camp in Muna.
Shortly after the NAHCOM officials left, the Amirul Haj took over the microphone and preached for more than two hours. Those who expected the Imams to give a send-off prayer before departure were disappointed; however, this step was taken for the fear that the Imams would turn the event to a political campaign ground to canvas for Abdul Hakeem for 2023.
In order not to get himself into trouble, he gently turned away the Imams and lectured the pilgrims till 11:00pm.
Who says the Amirul Haj is not a smart guy?
