Saudi Arabia has stopped Kaduna-based Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi from performing the 2025 Hajj and deported him back to Nigeria, citing his views on world politics as the reason.
Despite being granted a visa, Gumi was not allowed to enter Medina to begin his religious duties.
He expressed gratitude to Nigerian authorities for their pledge to engage with Saudi authorities on the matter.
Gumi was part of a delegation of scholars sponsored by the Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON) to travel to Saudi Arabia for religious services.
He arrived in Medina with other clerics last Saturday, but upon arrival at the city’s airport, Saudi immigration officials prevented the cleric from entering the country.
The reason behind Saudi Arabia’s decision to bar Gumi from performing Hajj is believed to be linked to his views on world politics, which may not align with the kingdom’s stance on certain issues.
This move has sparked interest in the diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, with many awaiting the outcome of the Nigerian authorities’ engagement with their Saudi counterparts on this matter.
