Pilgrimage is a visit of a religion fanatic (pilgrim) to a place considered holy for religious reasons. Such places are more or less historical landmarks / sites as far as the religion is concerned. The significance of such journey in the life of a pilgrim is as controversial as any religion could be. Therefore the benefits derivable borders on the religious life of a pilgrim. However, I am yet to see the impact of pilgrimage in the life of Nigerian pilgrims. In fact, most Nigerian pilgrims indulge in such religious frivolities just to boost their socio-religious status; hence one can easily see Alhaji/Hajia or JP pre/post attached to their names. Unfortunately, most bearers dominate the list of corrupt citizens in Nigeria. Confounding is the fact that both states and federal govts spend hugely to sponsor beneficiaries. More confounding is the fact that various govts have continued to spend wastefully on pilgrimages against calls by prominent Nigerians to stop wasting tax payers money on such vanities. I was embarrassed when Partcy Eze of FRCN, reported this morning on 7.00am network news, that some pilgrims in Jerusalem dont even know why they are there. Ironically, the same govts that waste our common wealth on vain glory can not pay ASUU 4-month salary backlog and, can not attend to many other economic problems holding our dear country down. Its high time people in govt realised that if Mecca, Jerusalem etc did not organise such sites, no one will desire for a pilgrimage there. We have our own ingenious religious sites to organise. We have many economic issues. Pilgrimage is not among. Pilgrimage should be sponsord individually!
Posted on: Fri, 29 Nov 2013 10:31:16 +0000
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