Controversial Nigerian Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi was abruptly deported from Saudi Arabia on Sunday after arriving to make early preparations for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage. Saudi immigration authorities at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah reportedly denied the Kaduna-based cleric entry into the country, citing unspecified “national security concerns,” before placing him on the next available flight back to Nigeria.
The deportation comes as a significant blow to Gumi, who has frequently traveled to Saudi Arabia and previously organized Hajj trips for Nigerian pilgrims. While no formal charges were announced, sources suggest the Saudi government took issue with the cleric’s controversial statements about banditry and security matters in Nigeria.
Key Details of the Deportation
✔ Location: King Abdulaziz Airport, Jeddah
✔ Reason Cited: “Security concerns” (no specifics given)
✔ Current Status: Gumi back in Nigeria, no travel ban announced
✔ Impact: May affect his Hajj-related activities
Why This Matters
► Limits Gumi’s international religious influence
► Raises questions about Saudi-Nigeria relations
► Could impact his mediation role with armed groups
Possible Consequences
- Restricted future travel to Islamic holy sites
- Increased scrutiny of his teachings
- Potential cooling of his political influence
