Why Saudi Arabia Deported Sheikh Gumi Back to Nigeria
New information has surfaced regarding the recent deportation of renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi from Saudi Arabia, suggesting he was already aware of a travel ban imposed by the Kingdom prior to setting out for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
Earlier this week, Sheikh Gumi publicly announced on his Facebook page—through a post titled “My Hajj 2025!”—that he was denied entry upon arrival at Medina airport, despite having a valid Hajj visa.
However, a source within the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), who wished to remain anonymous, told The Guardian on Tuesday that Gumi had long been barred from entering Saudi Arabia and was not caught by surprise.
According to the source, Saudi authorities often grant visas even to individuals flagged by their systems, only to deny them passage at the point of entry. “He has been on a no-entry list for some time now,” the source said. “Issuing a visa doesn’t automatically ensure entry if there are security or immigration concerns. He’s not the only person turned back this year.”
When asked if Gumi was informed of the ban beforehand, the official confirmed, “Yes, he knew.”
Sheikh Gumi, in his post, suggested that the decision may have been politically driven, linking it to his critical opinions on international politics and the Saudi government.
“My perspectives on global political issues seem to have unsettled the Saudi authorities. Though I was issued a visa, they apparently reconsidered,” he wrote. He expressed appreciation to Nigerian officials for stepping in and vowed to focus on his health and personal projects while calling for prayers for pilgrims and national peace.
He ended his message with a verse from the Qur’an (2:196), highlighting the provision for those who are prevented from completing
the pilgrimage.
