Controversial Kaduna-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has been deported back to Nigeria from Saudi Arabia where he had traveled to perform the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.

Sheikh Gumi confirmed his deportation in a Facebook post on Monday morning, attributing the action to his views on world politics. Despite being granted a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, the cleric was prevented from entering Medina to commence his religious duties.

"Due to some reasons related to my views on world politics, the authorities in Saudi Arabia do not want me to be present at Hajj even though they have granted me a visa," Gumi stated in his post.

The scholar expressed gratitude to Nigerian authorities, saying, "I am grateful to the authorities in Nigeria who have pledged to engage with the Saudi authorities on this matter."

Sources revealed that Sheikh Gumi was part of a delegation of scholars sponsored by the Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON) to travel to Saudi Arabia for religious services during the annual pilgrimage.

The deportation comes amid ongoing airlifting of Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj, with reports indicating that NAHCON has already transported approximately 79% of Nigerian pilgrims to the holy land.

Sheikh Gumi, known for his outspoken views on various political and security issues in Nigeria, has often made headlines for his controversial statements and positions on national matters.

As of the time of this report, neither the Saudi Arabian authorities nor NAHCON has issued an official statement regarding the deportation of the Islamic scholar.