Why Saudi Arabia Barred Me from Hajj – Sheikh Gumi Breaks Silence
 |
| Why Saudi Arabia Barred Me from Hajj – Sheikh Gumi Breaks Silence |
Kaduna-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has shed light on the real reason behind his recent ban from Saudi Arabia, which prevented him from participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
In a statement shared via his social media account, Gumi confirmed he had returned to Nigeria after Saudi authorities barred his entry—despite having a valid visa. He attributed the decision to his outspoken political and religious views, particularly those critical of Saudi Arabia’s current direction.
“For obvious reasons—mainly my views on global politics—the Saudi authorities were uncomfortable with my presence during Hajj, even after issuing a visa,” Gumi wrote. He praised the Nigerian government for standing by him, describing Nigeria as a democracy where freedom of expression is respected.
The incident triggered widespread reactions on social media, as many speculated over the cleric’s strained relationship with the Saudi leadership.
DAILY POST investigations suggest the ban may be linked to Gumi’s repeated criticisms of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing reforms, which he claims are eroding the kingdom’s traditional Islamic values in favor of Western-style modernization.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Sheikh Gumi reaffirmed his position, saying he would not be silenced by intimidation. “Saudi Arabia is a police state where freedom of speech doesn’t exist. In Nigeria, we were raised with the right to speak out—and I cherish that.”
He continued: “In Islam, silence in the face of injustice is not an option. This is the root of my conflict with Saudi Arabia.”
When asked if he was concerned about being permanently banned from Hajj, Gumi responded with calm resolve. “Hajj is not an obligation for everyone. Even Sheikh Usman Dan Fodio never performed Hajj, yet he made tremendous contributions to Islam. So no, I’m not worried.”
Gumi insists that his criticisms are not born out of malice but a desire to see the kingdom correct its missteps. “We’re trying to help them. Anyone trying to block access to Mecca for sincere pilgrims will eventually face consequences. That’s a promise.”
He acknowledged that his sermons may have played a role in the Saudi decision. “Yes, I speak the truth, and that truth can be uncomfortable. Saudi Arabia has done good in many areas, but its current alignment with Western powers is dangerous. History teaches us that such alliances often end in betrayal—just like when the Arab world followed the British only to be deceived over Palestine.”
“Even within Saudi Arabia, not everyone agrees with the current trajectory. So why should we in Nigeria, where freedom of speech still exists, stay silent?”
As of press time, the Saudi embassy in Nigeria had yet to issue an official response, and efforts to reach their media officer, Mohammed El-Sahabi, yielded no result.
This development may signal a new strain in Nigeria-Saudi relations, particularly in the north where Saudi Arabia enjoys significant religious influence. Gumi’s bold stance makes him a rare voice among Nigerian scholars trained in the kingdom who are willing to publicly challenge Saudi leadership.
Source
Leave Comments
Post a Comment