The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opened an investigation into the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Saleh Abdullahi Usman, over alleged large-scale financial misconduct linked to the 2025 Hajj operations.
The Guardian Nigeria gathered that Professor Usman appeared at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday following a formal invitation by the anti-graft agency.
He was reportedly released on administrative bail but directed to report to the commission daily as investigations continue.
The probe, it was learnt, followed allegations of massive corruption within the commission, including the alleged diversion and mismanagement of more than N50 billion meant for Hajj operations.
Among the allegations are the unauthorised use of N25 billion for Masha’ir tents, N7.9 billion for contingency housing, and N1.6 billion in travel expenses reportedly incurred by the spouses of some officials.
Last month, EFCC operatives 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 officials are said to be cooperating with investigators.
Sources within the Presidency confirmed that Professor Usman’s Villa security clearance had been suspended pending the conclusion of the investigation — a development described as a sign of how seriously the government views the case.
In an earlier appearance before the House of Representatives during a public hearing, the NAHCON Chairman admitted that there were “dirty deals” within the organisation but pledged to support ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and accountability.
A statement issued by the commission noted that NAHCON “will not shield any staff or process found wanting” and expressed its readiness to cooperate fully with the EFCC and other relevant authorities.
When contacted, EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said he would provide details later but had yet to do so at the time of filing this report.