Saudi Arabia Deports Nigerian Scholar Sheikh Gumi, Bars Him from Hajj Over Political Views

The Saudi Arabian embassy in Abuja has yet to comment on the reported deportation of prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, who was denied entry into Medina for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. 

Gumi, a Kaduna-based cleric, confirmed the incident in a Facebook post on Monday, stating that Saudi authorities revoked his access despite initially granting him a visa.

He suggested that the decision may be linked to his political views. 

“Due to my perspectives on global politics, the Saudi government prevented me from performing Hajj, even after issuing me a visa.

“I appreciate the Nigerian authorities for their commitment to engaging with Saudi officials on this matter,” Gumi wrote.

Sheikh Gumi was part of a Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON)-sponsored delegation of scholars traveling to Saudi Arabia for religious duties. He arrived in Medina last Saturday via an Umza Air flight but was stopped by immigration officials upon landing. 

Reports indicate that Gumi has since returned to Nigeria and resumed his regular activities, including teaching. 

When contacted, Saudi Embassy Press Attaché Mohammed Alsahabi declined to provide details, stating, “I have seen the news but currently have no information. Once I do, I will share it.”

The Saudi government has not issued an official statement regarding the deportation.