The first batch of 5,428 Ghanaians who embarked on the spiritual journey of pilgrimage to Mecca, this year, returned home Monday evening.
The 256 pilgrims, led by the National Chief Imam Sheikh Osuman Nuhu Sharubutu, touched down at 6pm in a Malaysian aircraft, Boeing 747.
The obviously excited pilgrims were happy and relieved to back home. Excited family members mobbed their relatives who returned from the once in a life-time journey for many.
The remaining batches will arrive daily till they all return home by the end of this month.
Addressing journalists at airport, the Chief Imam thanked Allah for guiding the pilgrims throughout the period.
He said fervent prayers were said to avert the spread of the deadly Ebola virus, which has killed more than four 4,000 across West Africa, to Ghana.
Sheikh Nuhu Sharubutu also prayed for the souls of the three Ghanaian pilgrims who died in Mecca as well as for the lives of three babies who were born in the Holy city of Mecca.
The aged pilgrims proved a major headache for organizers of the Hajj but the Hajj Secretariat has promised to intensify its effort to discourage very old people from embarking on the rather tedious journey.
Latest Stories
-
Farmer arraigned over threat of death
5 mins -
Education Minister unveils new uniforms for basic schools
12 mins -
8th Ghana CEO Summit scheduled for May 27
19 mins -
Leaked intimate video has severely embarrassed me; I’m sorry – Serwaa Amihere
50 mins -
Poll results alone don’t constitute victory for any political party- Asiedu Nketia cautions NDC
2 hours -
Gyakie spills truth on her journey to fame
2 hours -
Energy sector CSOs challenge President Akufo-Addo to transparent value for money audit of SML contract
3 hours -
Plunderers of the State will face the music – Prof Jane Opoku-Agyemang promises
3 hours -
We don’t feel safe after inconsiderate conduct of Regional Minister – Ashanti ECG staff
3 hours -
Ghana needs urgent reset and inspiring leadership – Mahama
4 hours -
Asiedu Nketia cautions NDC: Don’t be complacent, election 2024 victory isn’t assured yet
5 hours -
Ongoing power crisis worst in the 4th Republic- Alhassan Suhuyini
5 hours -
Power challenges would be over in the next few days – Herbert Krapa
5 hours -
Full text: Acceptance speech by Prof Naana Opoku-Agyemang as Mahama’s running mate
5 hours -
Government’s fiscal adjustment on track – Report
5 hours