What is the validity of the statement by some scholars that seeking nearness to Allah through the persons of the righteous is not a religious innovation?

The questioner:
He says: Does the statement of some scholars on this issue prevent ruling that it is a religious innovation, so that one cannot say it? So that one cannot say that seeking nearness to Allah through the persons of the righteous is a religious innovation, because this has become unclear to us.

The Shaykh:
What?

The questioner:
He says: Does the statement of some scholars on this issue prevent ruling that it is a religious innovation?

The Shaykh:
No, it is a religious innovation. The one who prevents ruling that it is a religious innovation is the innovator. It is a religious innovation, and it is not permissible. It is not permissible to follow any supplication that contradicts the Book and the Sunnah; whatever contradicts the Book and the Sunnah is a religious innovation. The Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) said: Do not hesitate in the fact that whatever contradicts the evidence is a religious innovation. Yes, and seeking nearness to Allah through persons is a religious innovation that contradicts the evidence.