“The remaining two died while performing the Islamic obligatory exercise in Mecca,’’ he said in a statement.

According to the agency, the pilgrims are Alhaji Sani Zuru, an Islamic cleric from Zuru Local Government Area and Hajiya Fati Fakkai from Fakai Local Government Area.

“Others are: Alhaji Adamu Liman from Argungu Local Government and Hajiya Rashida Musa from Shanga Local Government Area.”

Sakaba, who was represented by Dr Hali Bala, a member of the state’s Amir Hajj delegation, sympathized with the families and people of the affected local government areas over the death of the pilgrims.

Sakaba also prayed Almighty Allah to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.