Sheikh Gumi, a critic of Saudi Arabia’s Yemen war, says he was blocked from Hajj

June 2, 2025 by News Desk

Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmed Gumi has claimed that Saudi authorities barred him from performing the 2025 Hajj, despite holding a valid visa.

The outspoken preacher, known for his critical views on regional and global politics, made the announcement via his official Facebook page.

“For some obvious reasons—my views about world politics—the Saudi authorities are uncomfortable about my presence in the Hajj after giving me the Hajj visa,” Sheikh Gumi wrote.

He thanked Nigerian officials, stating they have pledged to take up the matter with Saudi authorities on his behalf.

Gumi’s political and religious views have often contrasted with Saudi Arabia’s official positions. He has criticized Wahhabism—the Kingdom’s dominant religious ideology—and has publicly opposed Saudi involvement in regional conflicts, including the war in Yemen.

Gumi has also been vocal about the Kingdom’s ties with Western powers, especially the United States.

Though not a declared adversary of Saudi Arabia, his advocacy for alternative Islamic interpretations and his controversial positions at home, including support for dialogue with armed groups, have made him a politically sensitive figure.

As of now, there is no official confirmation from Saudi authorities or international news agencies verifying Gumi’s claim.

While Saudi Arabia has recently tightened Hajj regulations for 2025—including restricting travelers from 14 countries, including Nigeria, to single-entry visas valid for 30 days—these measures are aimed at curbing unauthorized pilgrimage and do not appear to target individuals based on political views.

In the absence of independent verification, the authenticity of Sheikh Gumi’s claim remains uncertain.