As at 6pm this evening, Nine Sokoto pilgrims have been confirmed dead in the stampede that occurred in Saudi Arabia last Thursday.

Government officials on ground, led by the state Deputy Governor, are making efforts to identify many of the injured still in hospitals.

Further statement will be made as information becomes available. May God bless the souls of the departed. May the injured be healed soonest.

The Sokoto State Government has set up a help desk in the 23 local government councils, to be coordinated by the office of the SSG.