Saudi Arabia Govt Deports Renowned Islamic Scholar Sheikh Gumi, Bars Him from 2025 Hajj

Renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has been deported from Saudi Arabia and barred from performing the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, despite arriving with a valid visa.

The Kaduna-based cleric confirmed the development in a Facebook post on Monday, stating that Saudi authorities turned him back due to his political views.

“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,” he wrote.

Gumi, who was part of a delegation of scholars sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), landed in Medina on Saturday night aboard an Umza Air flight. However, he was stopped by Saudi immigration at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, denied entry, and subsequently deported to Nigeria.

He noted that Nigerian officials have expressed concern and promised to engage with their Saudi counterparts for clarification.

“I am grateful to the authorities in Nigeria who have pledged to engage with the Saudi authorities on this matter,” he added.

A NAHCON source, speaking anonymously, confirmed the incident and expressed surprise, noting that all members of the delegation had valid visas and met the requirements for Hajj.

While Saudi Arabia has yet to provide an official explanation, observers believe the deportation may be linked to Gumi’s outspoken political and religious positions, which sometimes contradict Saudi policies. Gumi has been prominent in peace talks with armed groups in northern Nigeria and has often criticized both Western and Middle Eastern political actions.

The move has triggered debate among religious communities and the public, raising concerns about the intersection of politics and religious freedoms.

As of press time, neither the Saudi embassy nor Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a formal statement. Meanwhile, Sheikh Gumi has resumed his public preaching and teaching engagements in Nigeria. [CONTINUE READING HERE]>>>>