Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has urged the Nigerian government to defend the rights of its citizens globally, following his deportation from Saudi Arabia over the weekend.
In an interview with Vanguard, Sheikh Gumi confirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Department of State Services (DSS) contacted him shortly after the incident to discuss the matter.
Deported Upon Arrival in Medina
The cleric was among a group of religious scholars sponsored by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) who arrived in Medina on Saturday night aboard an Umza Air flight.
However, upon arrival at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Saudi authorities deported him back to Nigeria.
Gumi’s Appeal to the Federal Government
Sheikh Gumi emphasized the importance of protecting Nigerians abroad, especially in situations involving perceived unjust treatment:
“Nigeria should stand by her principles as a free nation. Every Nigerian has the freedom of speech as long as you do not call for violence, discrimination, or ethnic cleansing,” he said. “Your expressed views should not be used against someone intending to go for worship.”
He added,
“We are not slaves to anybody. This is a lesson we should teach all authoritarian governments — that you don’t play with the rights of Nigerians.”
Despite the incident, Gumi insisted he would still pursue his pilgrimage to the holy land, stating that religious worship should remain free of political or diplomatic interference.
“Yes, I will go on pilgrimage. It is a place of worship, and there should not be restrictions for adherents,” he said.
Aide: “He Was Barred Over Criticism of Saudi Rulers”
Gumi’s aide, Mallam Salisu, told Sahara Reporters that the cleric was stopped from performing the Hajj due to his outspoken criticism of the Saudi ruling family, particularly regarding their stance on the Israeli-Hamas conflict.
“His thumbprint failed to retrieve his biodata at immigration. The next day, Saudi authorities informed him that he was barred from participating in the Hajj due to his recent criticisms,” the aide said.
He also refuted claims that Gumi was formally deported, instead describing it as a denial of entry due to political sensitivities.
NAHCON Confirms Prior Ban
An official from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) confirmed to The Guardian that Sheikh Gumi was already banned from entering Saudi Arabia and had been previously made aware of the restriction.
“He has since been banned from entry into the Kingdom. They normally will issue a visa, and then upon arrival, they will not allow you to leave immigration and will deport you,” the official said.
“He is not the only person deported this year.”
The official stressed that a valid visa does not guarantee entry, especially for individuals flagged by immigration or security protocols.
Conclusion
Sheikh Gumi’s deportation highlights ongoing tensions between freedom of speech and international diplomacy, particularly for outspoken individuals with large followings. His call to the Nigerian government signals a broader conversation about how the country protects its citizens in foreign jurisdictions.
