Saudi Arabian authorities have barred Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Gumi, from performing the 2025 Hajj exercise.
In a post on his Facebook page on Monday, the cleric confirmed that he had returned to the country, adding that the Saudi authorities were “uncomfortable” with his presence in the Holy Land, despite having issued him a visa.
He further disclosed that the Nigerian authorities had pledged to immediately take up the issues with the Saudi authorities, while calling for prayers for the safe return of other pilgrims and the peace and prosperity of Nigeria.
His post read: “Alhamdullilahi I’ve already completed my Hajj 2025 and I’m at home in our beloved country Nigeria. Allah said in Q2/196: ‘And accomplish the Hajj i.e. pilgrimage and the Umra for Allah, but if you are prevented, (slaughter) the offering available with you (meaning, you are then free from Hajj or Umra).’
“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. Thanks to the Nigerian authorities, who have pledged to take up the matter immediately with the Saudi authorities. That is the value of our cherished freedom and democracy.
“I’m now free to attend to my health and farming activities. We should continue to pray for the safe return of all pilgrims, peace and prosperity for our dear nation.”
Gumi is known for his vocal and controversial defence of bandits, wreaking havoc in the North-East.
He wants the government to stop killing the bandits but to rather pardon and resettle them.
His calls have often been criticised and opposed.
Efforts by our correspondent to get further details from him on his Saudi Arabia experience proved abortive as his phone was switched.
Similarly, the Assistant Director for Information and Publication at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Fatima Sanda Usara, could also not be reached as her phone was also switched off.
Madukwe B. Nwabuisi is an accomplished journalist renown for his fearless reporting style and extensive expertise in the field. He is an investigative journalist, who has established himself as a kamikaze reporter.