Isa Ali Pantami Reveals Why Muhammadu Buhari Told Him To Stay Away From Gombe Politics

Pantami made the clarification during an interview on TVC, where he also discussed internal issues within the All Progressives Congress (APC). He said the decision to stay away from Gombe politics was based on advice from Buhari, aimed at preventing possible friction between him and the then state governor.

According to him, the former president’s directive was intended to maintain harmony within the party and avoid unnecessary conflicts between federal appointees and state political structures. Pantami added that he complied with the instruction out of respect for the office of the president who appointed him.

He noted that staying neutral in local politics enabled him to concentrate on his responsibilities at the federal level. He also claimed it helped him attract developmental initiatives to different parts of Gombe State without creating political tension.

Pantami dismissed suggestions that he distanced himself from politics in his home state, insisting that he remained committed to party activities indirectly through youth empowerment programmes, mentorship, and development projects across various local government areas.

He further stated that his current political involvement has changed since leaving office, explaining that he has returned to active politics following encouragement and pressure from supporters at the grassroots level.

Speaking in his words, he said: “Muhammadu Buhari advised me to stay away from Gombe politics because of instructions I received while serving in government. The aim was to avoid clashes between the federal side and the state government.

“I accepted the instruction because I was working under the president and I respected that position. Keeping away from local politics helped me focus on my federal duties.

“Now that I am no longer in government, I am back in active politics due to pressure from my supporters.