Saudi Arabian authorities have barred prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi from entering the country for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
The cleric confirmed this in a Facebook post shared on Monday, explaining that although he was granted a Hajj visa, he was denied entry into Medina.
However, he alluded to the Nigerian government’s promise to address the issue with its Saudi counterparts, noting that the support highlights the strength of Nigeria’s democracy and freedom. While he thanked them, the cleric said he would now focus on his health and farming activities.
“Thanks to the Nigerian authorities who have pledged to take up the matter immediately with Saudi authorities. That is the value of our cherished freedom and democracy.
“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.
About The Travel
Sheikh Gumi had traveled with a delegation of Islamic scholars sponsored by the Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON) and arrived in Medina last Saturday around 10:30pm on an Umra Air flight, before being turned away by Saudi immigration officials upon landing.
Cleric’s Controversial Nature
Sheikh Gumi has maintained his position as a controversial Islamic cleric in Nigeria over the years especially with regards his advocacy for dialogue with armed bandits.
In 2022, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi warned Northerners against voting for politicians who won’t grant amnesty to bandits stating that they were not terrorists but aggrieved, marginalized individuals and warriors who shouldn’t be killed but negotiated with.
Many Nigerians however view Gumi’s approach as misguided or sympathetic to criminals while the cleric frames his efforts as part of a religious and humanitarian mission to prevent further bloodshed.
