The Taraba State Government has firmly dismissed reports alleging that some of its Christian pilgrims were stranded in Amman, Jordan, due to financial difficulties and corrupt practices.
The allegations, which recently gained momentum on social media, painted a troubling picture of abandoned pilgrims in the Holy Land.
However, in a statement released on the 2nd of February, 2025, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian Religion Matters, Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, described the reports as “misleading and inaccurate.”
Refuting the claims, the statement emphasized that the pilgrimage was meticulously planned before the pilgrims embarked on their journey from Taraba.
It clarified that while some pilgrims obtained their visas to Jordan through the Nigerian Embassy, others traveled directly to Israel-Jerusalem, ensuring that no one was left to their fate.
The statement further highlighted that Governor Agbu Kefas provided full support to guarantee the pilgrims’ welfare, leading to a successful and fulfilling pilgrimage.
Participants visited various sacred sites and received their completion certificates, solidifying the journey’s success.
On concerns about visa disparities, the statement reassured the public that the matter had been fully addressed and did not result in any pilgrim being stranded.
Additionally, Muke pointed to social media updates from the pilgrims themselves, which reflected a deeply enriching spiritual experience.
Reaffirming the government’s dedication to the well-being of its citizens, the clergyman urged the public to disregard the “misleading reports” and trust in the administration’s commitment to ensuring smooth and well-organized pilgrimages.