Saudi Arabia Bars Sheikh Ahmad Gumi From Entering for 2025 Hajj

Saudi Arabian authorities have denied entry to prominent Nigerian Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, despite granting him a visa to participate in this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.

In a Facebook post on Monday, Gumi revealed that although he was issued a valid Hajj visa, he was blocked from entering the holy city of Medina upon arrival.

He attributed the move to his outspoken views on global politics, which he said may have made Saudi officials uncomfortable.

“For some obvious reasons—my views about world politics—the Saudi authorities are uncomfortable with my presence at Hajj after issuing me a visa,” he stated.

Gumi expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government for pledging to intervene in the matter, describing their support as a testament to the country’s commitment to democracy and freedom of expression.

“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,” he added.

Following the incident, the cleric said he would now shift focus to his health and farming, while offering prayers for the safety of pilgrims and continued peace in Nigeria.

“I’m now free to attend to my health and farming activities. We should continue to pray for the safe return of all pilgrims, and for peace and prosperity in our dear nation,” Gumi wrote.

According to a BBC report, the Islamic scholar had traveled as part of a delegation sponsored by the Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON). He landed in Medina at about 10:30 p.m. on Saturday via Umra Air, but was denied entry by Saudi immigration officials.