Ghana Hajj Taskforce clarifies report on missing pilgrims linked to Mahama Ayariga

The Ghana Hajj Taskforce has issued a statement refuting media reports suggesting that two Ghanaian pilgrims who traveled for this year’s Hajj under the supervision of Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, have gone missing.

In a publication by GHOne Television, the MP is reported to have stated: “I am unable to account for two pilgrims under my care who participated in this year's Hajj.” 

The Hajj Taskforce, however, has clarified that all pilgrims who traveled under the official arrangements of the Ghana Hajj Taskforce for the 2025 pilgrimage are accounted for, with no missing cases reported.

According to the Taskforce, investigations conducted in collaboration with Ghana’s Consulate in Jeddah identified the two individuals as Inusah Ramatu and Sali Hawa.

It was later verified that both did not travel under Ghana’s official Hajj quota but rather entered Saudi Arabia using tourist visas, a route that violates Saudi regulations regarding the Hajj pilgrimage.

“The victims are part of a wider group who sought to perform Hajj through illegal means,” the statement noted.

It added that many individuals using such unauthorized routes—commonly referred to as "Bongo" visas—have faced arrest or detention by Saudi authorities.

The Taskforce also confirmed that Mr Ayariga has officially reported the matter to Ghana’s Embassy in Saudi Arabia and emphasized that the information is verifiable.

In its statement, the Ghana Hajj Taskforce issued a strong warning to prospective pilgrims, urging them to follow approved procedures by obtaining proper Hajj visas through accredited agents and the Taskforce itself.

“Any other route is illegal, unsafe, and outside the jurisdiction or protection of the Ghana Hajj authorities,” the Taskforce stressed, reaffirming its commitment to the safety, dignity, and proper facilitation of all Ghanaian pilgrims.