Why we deported 264 Nigerian pilgrims, by Saudi Arabia

Maureen Aguta

As reactions continue to trail the cancellation of the visa of 264 Nigerian pilgrims by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on their arrival in the Kingdom on Monday, the Embassy of Saudi Arabia Kingdom has finally reacted to the deportation, saying it was not targeting Nigerians.

On Monday, The Saudi Arabian government cancelled the visa of all the 264 passengers airlifted by Nigeria’s major carrier, Air Peace, on arrival at the country from Kano, insisting that they be returned to Nigeria.

Advocacy Times had earlier reported on Wednesday that the Federal House of Representatives has mandated its committees on Foreign Affairs, Interior and Pilgrims Affairs to inquire into the immediate and remote circumstances surrounding the cancellation of already granted visas to 264 Nigerians.

The resolutions of the House were sequel to a motion of urgent public importance moved by Kama Nkemkanma, Olumide Osoba, Makki Yalleman and Tolulope Akande-Sadipe

However, in a statement released on Wednesday, the Sauisi Embassy said, “The passengers who were denied entry, and subsequently deported to their initial destinations, didn’t fulfil the entry conditions and requirements in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations of the Kingdom, as they submitted incorrect information to obtain a category of visa that doesn’t apply to them, which was discovered upon their arrival.”

“This procedure was not limited to Nigerian citizens only, but rather to citizens of other countries.”

The Royal Saudi Embassy also issued cautionary measures for applicants wishing to visit the Arabian Peninsula.

“The Royal Embassy would like to stress the importance of following the procedures and laws enacted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for all visitors,” it also read.

“Furthermore, all passengers should review all the documents to determine their conformity with the conditions before departing from their countries to the Kingdom.”