Sheikh Gumi deported, Barred from Hajj

News Update

Saudi Arabian authorities have deported prominent Kaduna-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, and barred him from performing the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.

The cleric confirmed the development in a post shared on his official Facebook page on Monday.

According to Gumi, although he was granted a visa to enter the Kingdom for Hajj, Saudi immigration officials denied him entry into 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,” Sheikh Gumi stated.

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

Findings revealed that Sheikh Gumi was part of a delegation of scholars sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to offer religious services during the 2025 pilgrimage. He reportedly arrived in Medina on Saturday night aboard an Umza Air flight, along with other clerics.

However, shortly after landing around 10:30 p.m., Saudi immigration officials stopped him from proceeding into the city. He was subsequently put on a return flight to Nigeria.

Sheikh Gumi, known for his outspoken views on politics and national security, has resumed his regular teaching activities upon return to Nigeria.