[JUST IN] N90bn probe: Tinubu sacks Arabi as Hajj commission chairman

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Professor Abdullahi Usman as the new Executive Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, replacing Jalal Arabi, who is under investigation for allegedly mismanaging N90 billion in Hajj subsidies. Arabi’s tenure was marked by controversy, including an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for illegal withdrawal and alleged mismanagement of the 2024 Hajj intervention fund.

Usman, a renowned scholar with experience in Hajj operations, is expected to bring integrity and transparency to the role. His appointment is subject to Senate confirmation. The Presidency described Usman as “a renowned scholar with qualifications from two Islamic centers of excellence” and highlighted his experience as Chairman of Kano State Pilgrims Board.

The EFCC’s investigation into Arabi’s tenure revealed alleged fraudulent overpayments to himself and others, with a total of SR314,098 recovered from Arabi and other officials. The new Chairman is expected to discharge his duties with integrity, transparency, and utmost fidelity to the nation.