Prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has revealed that the Federal government (FG) is now engaging Saudi Arabian authorities following his sudden deportation and ban from performing the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
In a post on his official Facebook page, Sheikh Gumi confirmed that although he was issued a visa for Hajj, Saudi immigration officials denied him entry into Medina and sent him back to Nigeria.
He explained that the Saudi authorities were “uncomfortable” with his presence in the Holy Land, likely due to his outspoken views on world politics.
Sheikh Gumi wrote; “Alhamdullilahi I’ve already completed my Hajj 2025 and I’m at home in our beloved country Nigeria. Allah said in Q2/196: ‘And accomplish the Hajj i.e. pilgrimage and the Umra for Allah, but if you are prevented, (slaughter) the offering available with you (meaning, you are then free from Hajj or Umra).”
He added, “For some obvious reasons, my views about world politics, the Saudi authorities are uncomfortable about my presence in the Hajj after giving me the Hajj visa.”
He praised the Nigerian government for their swift response.
“Thanks to the Nigerian authorities, who have pledged to take up the matter immediately with the Saudi authorities. That is the value of our cherished freedom and democracy.”
The cleric also called on Nigerians to pray for the safe return of all pilgrims, and for peace and prosperity in the country.
“I’m now free to attend to my health and farming activities. We should continue to pray for the safe return of all pilgrims, peace and prosperity for our dear nation,” he said.
Sheikh Gumi is known for his controversial defense of bandits in Northern Nigeria, advocating for their pardon and reintegration rather than military action, a stance that has attracted criticism.
Attempts to get further comments from Sheikh Gumi and officials at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) were unsuccessful, as their phones were unreachable.
