Nigerian renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has been deported from Saudi Arabia after being denied entry into Medina, thus preventing him from taking part in this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.
Although no reason has been given for his ban, the Kaduna-based cleric is known for his avowed sympathy for bandits and terrorists, whom he believes are misunderstood and should be engaged in dialogue not force by the Nigerian government.
Gumi confirmed the development in a statement posted on his official Facebook page on Monday.
“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, who was part of a delegation of religious scholars sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), arrived at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina on Saturday night via Umza Air.
However, upon arrival, Saudi immigration officials reportedly singled him out at the airport and denied him entry into the city.
He was subsequently transported back home on a return flight to Nigeria.
Sheikh Gumi added in his statement that the Nigerian authorities had shown concern and have promised to engage Saudi officials to seek clarification and resolution.
“I am grateful to the authorities in Nigeria who have pledged to engage with the Saudi authorities on this matter,” he said.
A source within NAHCON, who requested anonymity, confirmed the incident, noting that the Commission was surprised by the Saudi decision, especially since all members of the delegation had received valid visas and had met the standard requirements for Hajj participation.
Although no official reason has been provided by Saudi Arabia for the deportation, observers believe the action may be connected to Sheikh Gumi’s outspoken political and religious views, which may be at odds with the kingdom’s policies. Gumi has in recent years played a prominent role in dialogue initiatives with armed groups in Nigeria’s northern region and has often voiced criticism of Western and Middle Eastern political interventions.
The incident has sparked discussions among religious communities and the wider public, with many questioning the implications of political ideology on religious observance.
Neither the Saudi embassy in Abuja nor Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an official statement on the incident.
