Tragedy struck 2024 Hajj Pilgrimage leading to over 1,000 lives being lost including that of the Lagos State All Progressives Congress chieftain, Alhaja Ramota Bankole due to scorching heat.
The extreme heat, reaching temperatures above 120°F (49°C), has left thousands more hospitalized with heatstroke.
The pilgrimage, which drew 1.8 million authorized attendees, has been marred by the unrelenting heat, with many victims succumbing to heat-related illnesses.
The death toll continues to rise, with countries like Indonesia, Jordan, Tunisia, Iran, Pakistan, and Malaysia reporting significant losses.
Saudi Arabia’s government has yet to release official figures, but reports indicate that the heatwave has disproportionately affected those who attended the pilgrimage through unofficial channels, making them more vulnerable to the extreme temperatures, according to Independent.
The World Health Organization warns that heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths worldwide, exacerbating underlying illnesses.
The recent heatwave in Saudi Arabia is part of a larger global trend, with countries like India, Greece, Italy, and others experiencing record-breaking temperatures.
Alhaja Ramota Bankole, a respected leader in Lagos’ All Progressives Congress, was among the victims, leaving behind a legacy of public service and a community in mourning.
Her death serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of extreme heat on human life.
Alhaja Ramota Bankole was from Epe part of Lagos State and a former welfare secretary of Lagos APC.
Ramota Bankole’s death was confirmed on Thursday by the council chairmen of Epe Local Government Area, Eredo and Ikosi-Ejirin Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
According to them, the death of the Lagos APC chieftain, who celebrated her 60th birthday last month was a rude shock.
The Chairman, Epe Local Government, Surah Animashaun, in a statement, noted that Bankole was hale and hearty before leaving the country for pilgrimage.
According to the statement, “It’s with a heavy heart, and a deep sense of grief that I received the news of the death of Alhaja Ramota Bankole.
“It is a sad day indeed as I received the news that she died in the holy land of Mecca while on holy pilgrim.
“I extend my condolences to the Bankole family, APC members and the entire people of Epe on the unfortunate demise of our dear Sister and Mummy”.
