One Advice for Pantami -By Muhammad Auwal Ibrahim

When Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami began to show open interest in partisan politics, it was clear to him that criticism would follow. Politics, by its nature, invites scrutiny. It is rarely a smooth journey for anyone and perhaps even less so for figures whose religious, ideological, and political differences already generate strong opinions.

I am confident that Pantami can endure criticism. Criticism, however, is not new to Pantami. During his tenure as minister, he remained one of the most publicly debated members of the cabinet. His actions and past statements were interrogated vigorously in the media and across public discourse. Yet, despite the intensity of that scrutiny, I did not come across reports of critics being arrested, harassed, or detained by security operatives or non-state actors for speaking against him. Some of the things said to him couldn’t even be tolerated by a non-government official. It has happened in the past and we all witnessed that on Facebook during his professorial saga.That period demonstrated a certain tolerance for public engagement, however uncomfortable it may have been.

As political conversations evolve, my sincere advice to those championing his aspiration is simple: tread carefully. Politics requires caution. Today’s adversary may become tomorrow’s ally and today’s political landscape can change tomorrow. Life is full of ups and downs. Nigeria’s political landscape offers countless examples of this fluidity.

Those opposing you today may one day find themselves in the same political party with you. A typical example is Daniel Bwala, who once said he would never support a Muslim-Muslim ticket and left APC for that reason and Reno Omokri, who criticised President Tinubu relentlessly. Today, both are working with the same administration and party they once opposed and fought. Interestingly, they now occupy positions that even some long-standing supporters did not secure. Such shifts may be strategic, ideological, or pragmatic but they illustrate a fundamental reality: in politics, permanence is rare.

The moral lesson here is, do not be like Daniel Bwala and Reno Omokri. They were once among the loudest critics of the current administration.

Imagine how Bwala might feel sitting with individuals he once fiercely criticised. Politics may be described as a game without permanent enemies, but it is never easy to share space with people you once publicly confronted. It may be common, but it is not always comfortable.

The ongoing political developments in Kano offer another lesson. The NNPP members that once fiercely opposed Ganduje and his allies are now aligned within the same political structure. Those once labeled enemies, thieves, or haters of Kano now share the APC platform. Even die-hard supporters have adjusted accordingly. Supporters of both Abba and Gawuna who once traded harsh words now share platforms. This again proves that there are no permanent enemies in politics, only permanent interests.

Another lesson worthy of note is how Pantami interacted with an APC stakeholders in Gombe, Ibrahim Bakas, when he raised some issues. Pantami didn’t use any derogatory word against. Rather, he responded to him in a jovial manner, saying “my brother”. And his message was passed.

For supporters, this means exercising restraint in the face of provocation. Therefore, those promoting Pantami’s political ambition must understand that critics will always speak, sometimes out of conviction, sometimes to protect their own political interests, and sometimes simply for political relevance. In Nigeria, political discourse often involves exaggeration, defamation, and even bullying. This culture discourages many well-meaning individuals from joining politics due to fear of reputational damage.

While no one expects you as politicians or supporters to remain silent in the face of attacks, responses must be measured. Speak with caution. Choose your words carefully. Address issues in a manner that reflects political maturity and strategic thinking, not emotional reaction. Engage critics in the language of politics: strategic, composed, forward-looking and not in personal hostility. Words spoken in moments of anger often outlive the circumstances that produced them.

In the end, politics is not a do-or-die affair. Even if political paths do not align, you remain members of the same community and state. Respect should remain constant. Do not leave behind a legacy defined by hostility or bitterness.

Muhammad Auwal Ibrahim is a decorated investigative journalist based in Gombe. He can be reached via awwalbinibrahim@gmail.com