Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a prominent Nigerian Islamic scholar, has been barred from performing the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia and deported back to Nigeria.
According to reports, Sheikh Gumi was stopped by Saudi immigration officials at the Medina airport, despite having a valid visa granted by the Saudi authorities.
The reason behind this decision is not explicitly stated by the Saudi government, but observers believe it’s linked to Sheikh Gumi’s outspoken views on politics and national security, which may conflict with Saudi policies.
Sheikh Gumi was part of a delegation of Islamic scholars sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to offer religious services during the Hajj season.
In a statement shared on his Facebook page, Sheikh Gumi expressed gratitude to the Nigerian authorities for their support and pledged engagement with the Saudi authorities on the matter.
He wrote, “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”.
Sheikh Gumi is known for his frank views on issues of national importance and has been involved in controversies, including his criticism of Boko Haram’s activities, which he considers un-Islamic.
He has also been an intermediary in dialogues with armed groups in Nigeria’s troubled northern regions.
