Saudi Arabian authorities have prevented prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi from entering the country to perform this year’s Hajj pilgrimage
In a Facebook post on Monday, Sheikh Gumi explained that although he was granted a Hajj visa, he was denied entry into Medina.
He expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government for pledging to raise the issue with their Saudi counterparts and noted that this support reflects the strength of Nigeria’s democracy and freedom.
Sheikh Gumi added that he will now focus on his health and farming activities.
He said: “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. We should continue to pray for the safe return of all pilgrims, peace and prosperity for our dear nation.”
According to the BBC, Sheikh Gumi was traveling with a delegation of Islamic scholars sponsored by the Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON).
He arrived in Medina last Saturday around 10:30 p.m. on an Umra Air flight, but was turned away by Saudi immigration officials upon landing.