ABUJA, Nigeria — Prominent Nigerian Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has been barred from participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage by Saudi authorities, despite being issued a valid visa.
The cleric was denied entry upon arrival in Medina and subsequently deported to Nigeria.
Sheikh Gumi confirmed the development in a Facebook post on Monday, May 26, 2025, stating that the Saudi authorities cited concerns over his political views as the reason for the abrupt denial.
“Due to some reasons related to my views on world politics, the authorities in Saudi Arabia do not want me to be present at Hajj even though they have granted me a visa,” Gumi wrote.
The cleric expressed appreciation to Nigerian officials for their pledge to engage diplomatically with Riyadh on the issue.
“I am grateful to the authorities in Nigeria who have pledged to engage with the Saudi authorities on this matter,” he added.
Gumi was among the clerics selected by the Nigerian Hajj Commission to accompany pilgrims and offer religious guidance during the annual rites.
He reportedly arrived in Medina on Saturday, May 24, 2025, aboard an Umza Air flight, accompanied by other religious leaders.
However, he was stopped at the point of entry and denied access by Saudi immigration officers.
Following his deportation, Gumi has returned to Nigeria and resumed his teaching and religious activities.
The Saudi government has not issued an official statement regarding the deportation.
However, observers note that Gumi’s frequent and outspoken commentary on international politics — including his past criticism of Middle Eastern geopolitical alignments — may have contributed to his exclusion.
This is not the first time Saudi authorities have exercised discretion in denying access to religious scholars or public figures during Hajj, often citing security or political considerations.
The Nigerian government has yet to issue an official response, though sources indicate diplomatic discussions are underway to clarify the situation.
