The Kwara State Government has denied claims by its Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chapter that pilgrims are stranded in Saudi Arabia, releasing a return flight schedule showing their repatriation will begin on 21 June 2025.

A statement signed by Chief Press Secretary Rafiu Ajakaye stated: "All Kwara Hajj pilgrims are accounted for and will return home as planned. The first batch will depart on 21 June, with subsequent flights ensuring orderly repatriation."

The clarification followed accusations by the PDP, which had claimed pilgrims were left in limbo despite assurances. The government emphasized that its Hajj management system is functioning effectively, with return logistics coordinated through the Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON).

"Kwara has some 2,204 pilgrims this year, one of the most significant contingents from Nigeria. These pilgrims are scheduled to depart Saudi Arabia in four batches as follows: June 21st, 23rd, 25th, and 27th. The Kwara State Government did not design this schedule; it was created by all the stakeholders: NAHCON, airlines, and the pilgrims' board.

"Today is June 17th. How did the story of being stranded arise?" Ajakaye clarified. He noted that many federation states still have pilgrims in the holy land, adding that:" Nigeria has some 41,000 pilgrims this year; of these, only 6,951 are back, according to NAHCON figures this afternoon.

He added:" Kwara State PDP has just issued a statement raising an alarm that Kwara State pilgrims in the holy land, Saudi Arabia, are stranded.

"As a policy of the media team, we checked to see if anything was amiss contrary to what we knew about the scheduled return of our pilgrims.

"I spoke with the Ameerul Hajj and Olupo of Ajase-Ipo HRM Oba Ismail Yahya Alebiosu and the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims' Board Executive Secretary. They both had a good laugh at the statement of the PDP because there is nothing of the sort."