Ahmad Gumi, a prominent Nigerian Islamic cleric, was denied entry into Mecca for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage despite holding a valid visa, according to his statement on Facebook. Gumi, part of the Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON) delegation assigned to guide pilgrims, arrived in Medina on Saturday night but was barred from entering Saudi Arabia by immigration officials.
Gumi alleged that Saudi authorities became uncomfortable with his presence due to his outspoken views on global politics. He thanked Nigerian officials for pledging to address the issue with Saudi authorities and confirmed his return to Nigeria, where he plans to focus on his health and farming activities.
Previously, in 2010, Gumi was detained in Saudi Arabia for over six months amid allegations of contact with Farouk Abdulmutallab, known as the “Christmas Bomber,” who attempted a terrorist attack on a U.S. flight in 2009. The U.S. reportedly shared intelligence with Saudi Arabia linking Gumi to Abdulmutallab. The Nigerian government intervened to secure his release after house arrest in Mecca.
Source: Swifteradio.com
