Tension in Nigeria as Death Toll in Hajj Stampede Rises to 717

An air of anxiety have taken over many Muslim communities in Nigeria as relatives of many pildrims strive to get in contact with their relatives in Mecca following the stampede reported to have killed over 700 pilgrims.

Many have become apprehensive as news of the tragedy hit the airwaves on Thursday as they returned from their respective praying grounds for the year's Sallah festivities.

A resident of Lagos who spoke with a reporter said she has been trying to call her husband and his son who are both in Mecca.

 

“I spoke with my son earlier this morning. He said they were okay. But when the news of the tragedy hit the CNN, I called my husband. I learn the stampede is serious,” she said

 

As at the time of filing this report, Saudi rescue authorities are still making efforts to ensure the casualty figure does not rise. At least 717 people taking part in the Hajj pilgrimage have been killed in a stampede near the Islamic holy city of Mecca, officials in Saudi Arabia say.

Another 863 people were injured in the incident at Mina, which occurred as two million pilgrims were taking part in the Hajj’s last major rite.They converge on Mina to throw stones at pillars representing the devil.

 

It would be recalled that preparations for the Hajj were almost marred when a crane collapsed at Mecca’s Grand Mosque this month, killing 109 people.

 

This morning's incident is the deadliest to occur during the Hajj in 25 years.