Saudi Arabia Deports Sheikh Ahmad Gumi Over Political Views Amid Hajj Permit Crackdown

Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a prominent Nigerian Islamic scholar known for his controversial political commentary, has been deported from Saudi Arabia after being barred from performing the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. Gumi disclosed on his Facebook page that despite obtaining a visa, Saudi authorities denied him entry into Medina, citing his views on world politics as the reason for the deportation.

This incident coincides with Saudi Arabia's intensified enforcement of Hajj regulations. The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced strict penalties for unauthorized Hajj attempts, including fines up to SAR 20,000 (approximately 5,332) for individuals without valid permits and up to SAR 100,000 (approximately26,661) for those facilitating such violations. Offenders also face deportation and potential bans from re-entering the Kingdom.

Gumi, who has previously engaged in dialogue with armed groups in Nigeria and has been a vocal critic of certain government policies, believes his deportation is linked to his political stances. He expressed gratitude to Nigerian authorities for their support and pledged to continue his advocacy for peace and justice.

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