Saudi Arabia Bars Sheikh Gumi from Performing 2025 Hajj

Saudi Arabian authorities have barred prominent Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi from participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, despite having granted him a visa. The development was revealed in a statement shared by the cleric on his official Facebook page on Monday.

Sheikh Gumi confirmed his return to Nigeria, stating that the Saudi authorities were “uncomfortable” with his presence in the kingdom. He attributed the move to his views on global political issues, which he believes may have influenced the decision.

“Alhamdullilahi I’ve already completed my Hajj 2025 and I’m at home in our beloved country Nigeria,” he wrote. Quoting the Qur’an, he referenced a verse that permits a pilgrim to exit Hajj obligations if prevented from completing the rites.

Gumi expressed gratitude to Nigerian authorities for pledging to engage with the Saudi government over the incident, describing it as a testament to Nigeria’s democratic values.

He concluded by calling for prayers for the safe return of other pilgrims and for continued peace and prosperity in Nigeria, adding that he now intends to focus on his health and farming activities.