Sokoto — Following Saudi Arabia's restriction of the performance of pilgrimage to once in five years, the Sokoto State Pilgrims welfare agency has directed hajj registration officers in the 23 local government areas of the state to screen out affected people in their respective areas.

Director- General of the state Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Bello Isa Ambarura gave the directive at a meeting with the local government hajj registration officers in the state yesterday.

According to him, the agency has already received order not to take the passport of anyone who performed last year's hajj for visa.He, however, advised the registration officers to allow those affected to bring their replacements if they are willing to do so.

But in the absence of replacement, he said such individuals will be refunded their fares.On those who performed hajj between 2006 and 2008 and think they may not be affected by the new policy because e-passport was just introduced last year, the director -general said the hajj commission has told them not to rely on e-passport because the Saudi government may use thumb prints.

He called for the support and understanding on the new development.

Also speaking, Special Adviser on Hajj Matters, Alhaji Abdullahi Mai Gwandu harped on the need for local government hajj officials to adhere strictly to the new order.

Mai Gwandu advised the officials to ensure they fully explain the situation to intending pilgrims from their areas.