The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) has issued a pressing statement, urging a reconsideration of the timing for the nationwide strike action declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC).
Expressing solidarity with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) in their advocacy for improved working conditions, Abdulateef Ekundayo Yubuf
National President, AHUON emphasised the detrimental impact of the proposed strike on the Muslim community, particularly amidst the sacred period of Hajj and Eid al-Adha celebrations.
Addressing the media on behalf of AHUON, Yubuf underscored the profound significance of Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, and its culmination with the Eid al-Adha festival, which holds immense religious significance for Muslims worldwide.
Yubuf lamented the potential disruption caused by the nationwide strike, highlighting the financial burden it would impose on pilgrims who have diligently saved for years to embark on this holy journey.
Pointing to the extensive preparations undertaken by AHUON members to facilitate Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, Yubuf emphasised the substantial financial investments made in arranging accommodation, transportation, and sustenance for thousands of pilgrims, both domestically and internationally.
With billions of naira at stake, Yubuf stressed the non-refundable nature of expenses incurred, including ticket purchases and visa applications, underscoring the catastrophic implications of disrupted flight operations on both local and international scales.
AHUON’s impassioned plea resonates with a sense of urgency, appealing to the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress to reconsider the timing of the proposed strike action.
Emphasising the diverse religious fabric of Nigeria, Yubuf implored the unions to demonstrate sensitivity to the religious sentiments of the majority Muslim population, urging them to defer the strike until after the conclusion of Hajj festivities to mitigate substantial financial losses.
