Renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has been deported from Saudi Arabia after being denied entry into Medina, effectively preventing him from participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. The development has raised questions about the influence of political views on religious participation.
Sheikh Gumi, a Kaduna-based cleric known for his controversial opinions on national and international matters, confirmed the incident in a statement on his official Facebook page on Monday. He revealed that despite being granted a visa, Saudi authorities refused him entry due to “some reasons related to my views on world politics.”
The cleric was part of a delegation of religious scholars sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). He arrived at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina on Saturday night aboard an Umza Air flight. Upon arrival, Saudi immigration officials stopped him and denied entry, subsequently placing him on a return flight to Nigeria.
In his statement, Sheikh Gumi expressed gratitude toward Nigerian authorities, who have promised to engage with Saudi officials to seek clarification and resolution regarding the deportation.
“I am grateful to the authorities in Nigeria who have pledged to engage with the Saudi authorities on this matter,” he said.
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A source within NAHCON, speaking anonymously, confirmed the incident and expressed surprise at the decision. The source noted that all delegation members had valid visas and met all standard requirements for Hajj participation.
Although Saudi Arabia has not provided an official reason for deporting Sheikh Gumi, many observers believe it is linked to his outspoken political and religious views, which may conflict with the kingdom’s policies. Sheikh Gumi has played a significant role in dialogue initiatives with armed groups in northern Nigeria and has frequently criticized Western and Middle Eastern political interventions.
The news of Sheikh Gumi’s deportation from Saudi Arabia has sparked widespread discussion within religious communities and the public, raising concerns about how political ideology can impact religious observance.
As of this report, neither the Saudi embassy nor Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an official statement on the matter.
Following his return to Nigeria, Sheikh Gumi has resumed his preaching and teaching engagements, continuing his influence within the Islamic community.
