Saudi Arabia Deports Prominent Islamic Scholar Sheikh Gumi, Bars Him from 2025 Hajj

Renowned Kaduna-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has been deported from Saudi Arabia and banned from participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. 

In a post on his verified Facebook page on Monday, Sheikh Gumi confirmed that while Saudi authorities had granted him a visa, he was denied entry upon arrival in Medina and subsequently deported. 

“Due to my views on global political issues, the Saudi government does not want me at Hajj, despite issuing me a visa,” Gumi stated. 

He thanked Nigerian authorities for their efforts in engaging with Saudi officials to address the matter. 

Investigations revealed that Sheikh Gumi was part of a delegation of Nigerian Islamic scholars sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to offer religious guidance during Hajj. 

He arrived in Medina on Saturday night via an Umza Air flight with other clerics but was detained by Saudi immigration officials at the airport and refused entry. 

Reflecting on his deportation, Sheikh Gumi cited Qur’an 2:196: “And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah. But if you are prevented, then offer what sacrifice you can afford.”