A Nigerian pilgrim who was on his way to Jamrate to perform the ritual of throwing stones collapsed and eventually died due to heatstroke.
Head of Nigeria’s Medical Team for the 2024 Hajj, Dr Abubakar Adamu, confirmed this in an interview with newsmen on Monday in Mina, Saudi Arabia.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah had around 11a.m. stopped pilgrims from proceeding to the Jamarat Bridge for the ritual of throwing stones from 11a.m. to 4p.m. due to excessive heat.
The pilgrims were cautioned against flaunting Saudi authorities directive that prohibit them from the ritual of throwing stones within the stipulated time.
He advised pilgrims to use umbrellas to protect themselves from the heatwave sun.
Adamu also empahaised the need for pilgrims to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if they do not feel thirsty.
Also, the Assistant Director, Public Affairs, NAHCON, Mrs Fatima Usara, said that the commission had been doing its best to educate the pilgrims, about the risk factors associated with exposing themselves to sun.
Mohammed Al-Abdulaali, a spokesperson for the Saudi health ministry, told reporters that more than 2,760 pilgrims suffered from sunstroke and heat stress on Sunday alone. Saudi Arabia has not provided any information on fatalities.
The temperature reached a whooping 47C (116.6F) in Mecca on Sunday.