By Christopher Sunday, Abuja
voxnews.com.ng
Prominent Kaduna-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has been barred from participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage and subsequently deported back to Nigeria by Saudi Arabian authorities.
The incident, which occurred over the weekend, has sparked widespread discussion across religious and diplomatic circles. Sheikh Gumi confirmed the development in a statement posted on his official Facebook page on Monday, May 26, 2025.
According to Gumi, although the Saudi authorities had earlier granted him a visa, he was denied entry upon arrival at the Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina. He stated that immigration officers stopped him from proceeding with the pilgrimage, citing issues related 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,” Gumi wrote.
He acknowledged the support of the Nigerian authorities and expressed hope that the situation would be addressed diplomatically. “I am grateful to the authorities in Nigeria who have pledged to engage with the Saudi authorities on this matter,” he added.
Findings revealed that Sheikh Gumi was among a group of Nigerian clerics sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to participate in the 2025 pilgrimage. He reportedly arrived in Medina last Saturday around 10:30 p.m. aboard an Umza Air flight alongside other scholars.
However, his journey was cut short when Saudi immigration officials at the Medina airport refused him entry, ordering his immediate deportation. No official reason has been publicly provided by the Saudi government.
Back in Nigeria, Sheikh Gumi has since returned to his usual activities, particularly his religious teachings and public commentary.
This development comes amid increasing scrutiny of international religious delegations and growing sensitivities around political and ideological expressions at major global religious gatherings.
The Nigerian government has not yet issued an official statement, but diplomatic sources indicate that discussions may soon commence between both countries to address the matter.
