A male Nigerian pilgrim believed to be from Bauchi State participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise, on Wednesday, died at Muzdalifah shortly after arriving from Arafat.

Our correspondent, who was at the location, observed Saudi Arabian security officials and emergency medical personnel evacuating the deceased from the premises in the early hours following the pilgrims’ overnight movement from Arafat to Muzdalifah.

Witnesses said the pilgrim was wheeled out by Saudi police officers alongside emergency medical team officials shortly after the incident occurred.

Two officials believed to be attached to the Bauchi State pilgrims contingent were also seen escorting the deceased during the evacuation process.

At the time of filing this report, the identity of the pilgrim had yet to be officially confirmed by relevant authorities.

The cause of death also remained unclear as officials were yet to release an official statement on the incident.

The development comes amid the physically demanding phase of the Hajj pilgrimage, which involves continuous movement of pilgrims between holy sites under intense weather conditions and large crowds.

Thousands of Nigerian pilgrims had earlier arrived in Muzdalifah overnight after spending the Day of Arafat in prayers and supplications regarded as the spiritual peak of the annual pilgrimage. (Daily Trust)

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