Sheikh Gumi Deported From Saudi Arabia
In a major diplomatic and religious development, Saudi Arabian authorities have reportedly barred prominent Nigerian Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, from entering the Kingdom to perform the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
According to reliable sources, Sheikh Gumi was denied a visa by the Saudi consulate, effectively preventing him from traveling to Mecca for the annual Islamic rite. The reasons for the visa denial have not been officially disclosed by the Saudi government.
Visa Denial Raises Eyebrows
The decision has sparked widespread speculation and concerns within Nigeria’s Muslim community, especially given Sheikh Gumi’s standing as a prominent Islamic scholar, former army officer, and vocal commentator on national security matters.
While neither the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia nor Nigeria’s Hajj Commission has issued an official statement regarding the incident, close associates of the cleric confirmed the development and described it as a “deliberate attempt to silence critical Islamic voices.”
Gumi’s Stance on Banditry and Regional Insecurity
Sheikh Gumi has been a controversial figure in Nigeria over the past few years, mainly due to his mediatory efforts between the government and armed bandit groups in Northern Nigeria. His public calls for dialogue with the bandits have drawn both criticism and praise, depending on the audience.
There is growing speculation that his views on internal security, particularly his public criticisms of state policies and security agencies, may have influenced the Saudi decision, as the Kingdom traditionally avoids controversies surrounding political Islam and public dissidents.
Potential Diplomatic Fallout
Religious and diplomatic observers warn that this development may strain relations between certain clerical bodies in Nigeria and Saudi authorities, particularly ahead of a Hajj season expected to host over 95,000 Nigerian pilgrims.
Nigerian authorities have not officially responded to the matter, but sources within the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) say they are aware of the incident and are seeking clarification from the Saudi embassy in Abuja.
Public Reactions
The news has triggered a mixed reaction online. While some Nigerians expressed outrage and solidarity with the cleric, others argued that Saudi Arabia reserves the right to approve or deny visa applications based on its internal security considerations.
A social media user posted: “If Saudi Arabia can stop a high-profile scholar like Sheikh Gumi, what message does that send to ordinary Muslims?”
Another countered: “The Hajj is a religious obligation, not a political platform. Saudi Arabia has the sovereign right to manage access as it deems fit.”
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 Hajj season approaches, this move could influence discussions around the politicization of religious rites and the power wielded by host countries over global Islamic affairs.
TJ News Nigeria will provide updates as more details become available.
