Controversial Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has been barred by Saudi Arabian authorities from entering the Kingdom to participate in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, despite being previously issued a valid visa.
The Islamic scholar, who is widely known for his advocacy of negotiations and amnesty for armed bandits in Northern Nigeria, announced the development in a Facebook post on Monday, claiming that the Saudi authorities were uncomfortable with his political stance.
“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,” Gumi wrote.
Forced to Perform Hajj from Home
Following the denial of entry, Sheikh Gumi returned to Nigeria and announced that he would observe the Hajj rites from home in line with Islamic provisions for those who are unable to complete the pilgrimage due to external constraints.
He cited Quran 2:196 to justify his decision, which allows Muslims to fulfill Hajj obligations symbolically if physically prevented from completing the journey:
“‘And accomplish the Hajj and Umra for Allah, but if you are prevented, [then offer] the sacrifice that is easy to obtain.’ That means you are then free from the obligation,” Gumi explained.
Nigerian Authorities Step In
Sheikh Gumi also noted that Nigerian officials have pledged to intervene and engage with Saudi authorities to resolve the matter.
“Nigerian authorities have pledged to take up the matter immediately with Saudi authorities. That is the value of our cherished freedom and democracy,” he stated.
Not the First Run-In with Saudi Arabia
This is not the first time Sheikh Gumi has faced trouble with Saudi authorities. Over a decade ago, he was arrested and detained for more than six months by the Saudi government over alleged ties with Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, the Nigerian man who attempted to detonate explosives hidden in his underwear on a U.S.-bound flight in 2009.
Though he was eventually released, that incident has continued to cast a shadow over Gumi’s international travel, particularly within conservative Gulf states.
Controversial Figure Amid Nigeria’s Banditry Crisis
In recent years, Sheikh Gumi has sparked national debate for his open advocacy of dialogue with armed bandit groups, even as they continue to carry out deadly attacks, mass kidnappings, and extortion across Nigeria’s northern region. His calls for amnesty and reintegration of the gunmen have drawn sharp criticism from security experts, victims’ families, and the wider public.
While Gumi insists his approach is aimed at achieving peace through negotiation rather than force, many accuse him of providing legitimacy to violent non-state actors.
