Renowned Kaduna-based Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has been deported from Saudi Arabia and prevented from participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. Although he was granted a visa, Saudi immigration officials denied him entry into Medina upon his arrival, citing concerns related to his views on world politics.
Sheikh Gumi confirmed the development in a statement posted on his official Facebook page, explaining that despite the visa approval, Saudi authorities were uncomfortable with his presence at Hajj due to his outspoken political stances. He expressed gratitude to Nigerian authorities for pledging to engage with Saudi officials to seek clarification and resolution.
The cleric was part of a delegation of religious scholars sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to provide spiritual guidance during the pilgrimage. He arrived in Medina on Saturday night aboard an Umza Air flight but was stopped at the airport and subsequently placed on a return flight to Nigeria.
Sheikh Gumi is known for his controversial views on national security, banditry, and foreign diplomacy, and has been actively involved in dialogue initiatives with armed groups in Nigeria’s northern region. His deportation has sparked discussions about the impact of political opinions on religious observance.
Following his return to Nigeria, Sheikh Gumi has resumed his public preaching and teaching engagements. The Saudi government has not issued an official explanation for the deportation.
