According to Nigerian media, more than 170 Nigerians travelling to Saudi Arabia were refused entry on Monday because Saudi authorities allegedly cancelled their visas after they arrived.
Prior to departure, 264 passengers—who were travelling from Lagos and Kano—had their visas approved and undergone extensive scrutiny. But while they were travelling, their visas were purportedly cancelled.
The Nigerian Air Peace carrier was instructed to return the passengers to Nigeria after Saudi authorities refused them admission upon their arrival.
Regarding the occurrence, the Saudi authorities have not released an official statement.
The cancellation of their visa surprised the passengers, who said they had met all entrance requirements for the Middle Eastern nation.
Following the intervention of the Nigerian embassy, 87 passengers were granted admission into Saudi Arabia, with the remaining 177 being returned to Nigeria on Monday evening.
Numerous travelers appeared to be travelling with the purpose of doing the lesser Hajj, or Umrah, which is a pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city of Islam.
