Why Saudi Arabia Barred Me from Performing Hajj – Sheikh Gumi Speaks Out
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| Why Saudi Arabia Barred Me from Performing Hajj – Sheikh Gumi Speaks Out |
Prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has disclosed the reason behind his exclusion from performing this year’s Hajj despite being granted a visa by the Saudi authorities.
In a post on his official Facebook page, Sheikh Gumi revealed that although he had been issued a Hajj visa, Saudi immigration officials barred him from entering Medina upon his arrival, effectively preventing him from participating in the pilgrimage.
“Although I was granted a Hajj visa, I was denied entry into Medina. This appears to be linked to my political views, which Saudi authorities find uncomfortable,” Gumi stated.
He expressed appreciation to Nigerian authorities for promptly stepping in to address the matter with their Saudi counterparts, describing it as a reflection of Nigeria’s democratic values.
Gumi added that he would now focus on his personal health and farming, while urging Nigerians to pray for the safety of pilgrims and continued peace in the country.
Background of the Incident
According to reports from the BBC, Sheikh Gumi was among a group of clerics sponsored by the Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON). He arrived in Medina on a flight operated by Umza Air alongside other scholars. However, he was denied entry at the airport by Saudi immigration personnel.
The development is believed to be connected to Gumi’s outspoken criticism of Saudi Arabia and its allies in recent months. On his social media platforms, the cleric has posted strongly-worded commentaries and videos highlighting what he describes as the Arab world's hypocrisy, particularly in relation to their stance on Palestine and the West.
In one video posted in March 2025, Gumi condemned the treatment of Palestinians, accusing Arab nations of turning a blind eye to abuses while prioritizing self-preservation. In another post dated May 15, he criticized the warm reception given to former U.S. President Donald Trump by Arab leaders despite America’s military support for Israel.
He stated, “They gather to protect their thrones, not their people. Arab nations fear the West more than they stand for justice.”
Past Frictions with Saudi Authorities
This isn’t the first time Gumi has faced challenges with Saudi authorities. In a 2010 interview with Daily Trust, he alleged that his past detention in Saudi Arabia was influenced by security reports from the Nigerian government under former President Olusegun Obasanjo. He noted that his opposition to Obasanjo’s controversial third term bid may have led to surveillance and negative reports against him.
Reflecting on his detention, Gumi said he was well-treated while in custody and praised the Saudi prison facilities. However, he condemned the contrast with the deplorable conditions of Nigerian prisons, urging local leaders to prioritize reform.
He also debunked rumors that his release was contingent on being relocated back to Nigeria. “I was never found guilty of any wrongdoing,” he said. “There was no reason to impose such a condition.”
A Legacy of Religious Service
Despite his recent travails, Gumi’s family has deep historical ties with the Saudi kingdom. His late father, Sheikh Abubakar Gumi, received the prestigious King Faisal International Prize in 1987 in recognition of his outstanding service to Islam.
The award, one of the most respected in the Islamic world, celebrates exceptional contributions to Islamic studies, Arabic literature, science, medicine, and public service.
Source News
Daily Trust
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