Kaduna-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has alleged that he was barred by Saudi Arabian authorities from participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
In a message shared via his official Facebook page on Monday, the cleric revealed that he had already returned to Nigeria after Saudi officials reportedly became uneasy with his presence in the Kingdom — despite having granted him a visa for the holy pilgrimage.
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Gumi explained that the restriction stemmed from his outspoken views on global political affairs, which he believes made the Saudi authorities uncomfortable. He, however, appreciated the Nigerian government for promptly indicating interest in addressing the matter with Saudi officials.
He wrote:
“Alhamdulillah, I’ve completed my Hajj 2025 and am back safely in Nigeria. Allah said in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:196): ‘And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah. But if you are prevented, then [offer] what can be obtained with ease of sacrificial animals…’”
“Due to certain known reasons — mostly related to my stance on global politics — the Saudi authorities were not at ease with my presence during Hajj, despite having issued me a valid visa. I thank the Nigerian government for pledging to intervene swiftly. That is the beauty of democracy and national freedom.”
“Now, I can focus on my health and agricultural responsibilities. I urge everyone to keep praying for the safe return of all pilgrims and for continued peace and progress in Nigeria.”
Sheikh Gumi is a prominent figure known for his controversial views, particularly his advocacy for negotiating with armed bandits in Nigeria rather than resorting to military action. His calls for dialogue and rehabilitation of the outlaws have drawn both support and criticism nationwide.
Efforts by our reporter to reach the cleric for additional details on his experience in Saudi Arabia were unsuccessful as his phone remained unreachable. Similarly, the spokesperson for the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Fatima Sanda Usara, could not be contacted at the time of filing this report.