Hajj 2025: Saudi Arabia Deports Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, Citing Political Views
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Prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has been deported from Saudi Arabia after being denied entry upon arrival in Medina, effectively barring him from participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
The Kaduna-based cleric, known for his outspoken stance on political and religious matters, disclosed the development through a statement on his official Facebook page on Monday. He attributed the deportation to his views on global politics, despite having secured a valid Hajj visa.
“Though I was granted a visa, the authorities in Saudi Arabia refused my entry due to concerns tied to my political opinions,” Sheikh Gumi stated.
He was part of a delegation of Nigerian Islamic scholars sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), arriving at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Medina, on Saturday night via Umza Air. However, upon landing, Saudi immigration officials denied him entry and placed him on a return flight to Nigeria.
Gumi expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government for taking an interest in the matter. “I am thankful to the Nigerian authorities who have shown concern and assured me of their intent to engage with their Saudi counterparts for clarification,” he said.
An insider within NAHCON, who preferred not to be named, confirmed the incident and expressed shock, stating that all delegates had valid documentation and met the required criteria for Hajj.
While Saudi authorities have not issued an official explanation, many believe the deportation is linked to Gumi’s outspoken political and religious commentaries. He has been an active figure in negotiations with armed groups in northern Nigeria and has often criticized both Western and Middle Eastern interventions in African affairs.
The incident has stirred conversations among religious and political circles in Nigeria, with many debating the intersection of political ideology and the right to religious practice.
As of the time of this report, neither the Saudi embassy nor Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released an official statement on the matter.
Despite the setback, Sheikh Gumi has resumed his teaching and preaching activities in Nigeria.
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