Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has been barred by Saudi Arabian authorities from performing the 2025 Hajj despite being granted a valid visa and arriving in the Kingdom as part of Nigeria’s official religious delegation.

Gumi, known for his controversial stance on national and international issues, confirmed the development in a statement titled “My Hajj 2025!”, which he posted on his Facebook page on Monday.

The cleric revealed that Saudi immigration officials turned him back upon arrival at the Medina airport last Saturday.
Gumi also suggested that the action of the Saudi authorities was politically motivated.

He said: “For some obvious reasons, my views about world politics, the Saudi authorities are uncomfortable about my presence in Hajj after giving me the Hajj Visa.

“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.

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

He quoted Qur’an 2:196 to reflect on his situation.

“And accomplish the Hajj i.e, pilgrimage and the Umra for Allah, but if you are prevented, (slaughter) the offering available with you. (meaning, you are then free from Hajj or Umra).”

The cleric was reportedly part of a delegation of Islamic scholars sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and travelled aboard Umza Air alongside other clerics.