In a surprising development, Saudi Arabian authorities have barred prominent Nigerian Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, from performing the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, despite granting him a visa. The cleric was subsequently deported back to Nigeria.
Sheikh Gumi disclosed the incident via a Facebook post on Monday, May 26, confirming that although he was issued a Hajj visa, he was denied entry into the holy city of Medina upon arrival.
“Due to some reasons related to my views on world politics, the authorities in Saudi Arabia do not want me to be present at Hajj, even though they have granted me a visa,” Gumi stated.
He expressed appreciation to Nigerian officials, noting their willingness to engage with the Saudi government over the issue.
“I am grateful to the authorities in Nigeria who have pledged to engage with the Saudi authorities on this matter,” he added.
Reports indicate that Gumi was part of a delegation of Islamic scholars sponsored by the Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON) to offer religious services during the pilgrimage.
He arrived in Medina late Saturday night aboard an Umza Air flight with other clerics. However, Saudi immigration officials denied him entry at the airport.
The exact reasons behind the decision remain unclear, but it is believed to be linked to Gumi’s political views and public commentary.
The scholar has since returned to Nigeria and resumed his teaching and religious engagements.
The incident has sparked discussions on diplomatic relations and the influence of political perspectives on religious activities.
Report culled from Lere Olayinka’s Facebook Page.
