FG to introduce stiffer sanctions against pilgrims

Christian Okeke, Abuja - 26.06.2009

THE Federal Government is planning to introduce stringent measures against erring pilgrims on pilgrimage. Part of the measures was to introduce and enforce a fine of between N50 and 100 million on sureties of pilgrims who abscond from the Holy land, as well as working with relevant security agencies to prosecute the absconding pilgrims.

Speaking in Abuja while receiving the officials of the commission led by its Executive Secretary, Mr. John Opara, the Minister of Information and Communications, Professor Dora Akunyili, said such a ‘crazy’ fine was needed to deter those she noted gave the country a bad name.