A Cleric’s Controversial Stance: Unpacking the Fallout Around Sheikh Gumi

By Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies

“If the Nigerian Govt woldn’t do their job on Insecurity, the outside authorities would do it for them: The Case of Sheikh Gumi in Saudi Arabia” – Adesanya-Davies

Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a prominent Islamic cleric in Nigeria, has long been a polarizing figure. His recent deportation from Saudi Arabia and subsequent ban from performing Hajj have reignited debates about his role in the country’s security landscape.

Critics argue that Gumi’s rhetoric and actions have contributed to the complex security challenges facing Nigeria. Some have accused him of sympathizing with extremist groups, which may have led to his deportation from Saudi Arabia. While Gumi thinks he is advocating for dialogue and peaceful resolution, his methods and associations have raised concerns among many Nigerians as being part and parcel of the terrorists himself.

The controversy surrounding Gumi’s deportation highlights the delicate balance between religious freedom and national security. As a cleric, Gumi has significant influence over his followers, and his words and actions can have far-reaching consequences. This is why if the Nigerian government could take chances, the Saudi Arabia government commendably would not!

While it’s essential to respect religious freedom and promote interfaith dialogue, it’s equally crucial to acknowledge the potential risks associated with certain individuals or groups. In this case, Gumi’s actions and associations have seemingly led to consequences that may impact not only his personal life but also the broader security landscape in Nigeria.

As Nigeria navigates these complex issues, it’s essential to prioritize nuanced discussions and thoughtful analysis. By examining the intricacies of Gumi’s situation and the broader security context, Nigerians can work towards developing more effective strategies to address insecurity and promote stability. It’s not a case of considering the intricacies of diplomatic relations and just taking measures to protect their interests and citizens like Gumi at all.

It’s not about a diplomatic engagement whereby the Nigerian government needs to engage with Saudi authorities regarding the incident as unreasonably pledged. Saudi Arabia is the custodian io Islam and they have rejected whatever claim Gumi stands for severally by denying him hajj. Can’t the Nigerian government understand and read the hand writing on the wall? You cannot be holier than the Pope himself!

Gum’s deportation from Saudi Arabia reflects a broader issue of insecurity that the Nigerian government has failed to address. It’s suggests that the outside authorities are more concerned than the federal government of Nigeria itself with this complex situation of insecurity. His deportation from Saudi Arabia, is reportedly due to his alleged connections to extremist groups, raises questions about the intersection of national security and international relations.

The Nigerian government’s response to insecurity has been too cold, with few initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of violence and terrorism. However, the complexity of these issues demands a far more comprehensive approach that involves local, national, and international cooperation. Gumi himself should have far long been arrayed and questioned by the Nigerian government rather than granting him permission to go for Hajj.

The situation is unfortunate as it highlights the need for Nigeria to strengthen its own institutions and security apparatus while engaging in international cooperation to address shared challenges.

Ultimately, the issue at hand is simply a matter of external authorities stepping in due to governmental inaction; it includes a complex interplay of national and international factors that require a thoughtful and collaborative response. By acknowledging these complexities, Nigeria can work towards developing more effective strategies to address insecurity and promote stability, both within its borders and in partnership with the global community.

Sheikh Ahmad Gumi’s deportation from Saudi Arabia and subsequent ban from performing Hajj can be attributed to his views on world politics, which seemingly made the Saudi authorities uncomfortable. Here are some key points to consider:

• Gumi’s Views on World Politics: Sheikh Gumi himself stated that his views on world politics might be the reason behind Saudi Arabia’s decision. The exact nature of these views isn’t specified, but it’s clear they didn’t align with Saudi Arabia’s expectations.
• Denial of Entry Despite Valid Visa: Gumi had obtained a valid visa for Hajj, but was denied entry into Medina upon arrival. This suggests that the decision to bar him was made after his arrival, possibly due to his perceived influence or potential impact on the Hajj pilgrimage.
• Speculation Around Gumi’s Associations: While not explicitly stated by Saudi authorities, some speculate that Gumi’s associations or perceived sympathies might have contributed to the decision. However, without official confirmation, this remains speculative.
• Saudi Arabia’s Discretionary Powers: As the custodian of the holy sites, Saudi Arabia exercises significant discretion over who can participate in Hajj. The kingdom may have deemed it necessary to bar Gumi based on their own security or administrative concerns.

BACKGROUND:
It was reported in a news report on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 8:40 by Doris Israel Ijeoma that “Saudi Arabia deports Sheikh Gumi – The news reads in part “Saudi Arabian authorities have deported Nigerian Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi back to Nigeria. According to The Whistler, the cleric was barred from entering Medina, despite holding a valid visa. The deportation happened as he tried to take part in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.

“Gumi, who is based in Kaduna, travelled to Saudi Arabia last Saturday night aboard an Umza Air flight.
He was among a group of clerics sent by the Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON) to offer religious services to pilgrims. Upon his arrival around 10:30 pm, Saudi immigration officers stopped him at the airport and did not allow him to go past immigration. He was then deported to Nigeria.

“He later shared the experience on his verified Facebook page on Monday. In the post, Gumi said the decision to send him back was connected to his views on global politics, even though he was granted a visa before traveling. He also mentioned that Nigerian authorities have promised to speak with Saudi officials to find a solution.

“For some obvious reasons, my views about the world politics, the Saudi authorities are uncomfortable about my presence in Hajj after giving me the Hajj Visa. Thanks to the Nigerian authorities who have pledge to take up the matter immediately with Saudi authorities. That is the value of our cherished freedom and democracy. “I’m now free to attend to my health and farming activities”, he wrote.

This is not the first time Gumi has had trouble with Saudi authorities. In 2010, he was arrested and kept under house arrest for more than six months over suspected links with Nigerian terrorist Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, who was behind a failed plane bombing attempt on Christmas Day 2009. Reports at the time claimed that the United States found email messages between Gumi and Abdulmutallab shortly before the attack. Gumi was first held in Jeddah, later moved to Mecca, and eventually released after Nigeria’s intervention.

It’s worth noting that the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Abuja has not officially commented on the reasons behind Gumi’s deportation, leaving some aspects of the situation unclear.

Bishop Amb. Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, a Nigerian former Presidential Candidate is a Bishop & Defender of Christian Faith, a Peace Advocate Consul, a Political Analyst and a Public Commentator.