Salawu At 69: Obadaki Hails Ex-Deputy Gov’s Legacy Of Social Justice, Equity

A chieftain of the political class in Kogi State, Husseini Obadaki, has felicitated former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Dr. Barrister Phillips Omeiza Salawu, FCA, on his 69th birthday, describing him as an iconic political leader, champion of social justice and distinguished statesman.

Obadaki, in a birthday message issued in Abuja, said Salawu’s years of public service had been marked by purposeful leadership, selfless service and commitment to fairness, equity and inclusive development.

He noted that the former deputy governor had made significant contributions to the lives of the less privileged, particularly through scholarships and educational support for young people facing financial difficulties in pursuing their academic ambitions.

According to him, Salawu’s investment in education goes beyond individual beneficiaries, describing it as a strategic contribution to human capital development, future leadership and the sustainable growth of society.

Obadaki also commended his contributions to infrastructure development, including roads and other projects, as well as his advocacy for democratic social justice, political inclusion and peaceful coexistence.

He particularly recalled Salawu’s efforts to protect the traditional commonwealth, identity and heritage of Anebira, saying his interventions contributed to greater clarity on issues surrounding the historical identity and status of the central chiefdom.

He further highlighted Salawu’s role in the emergence of the Ohi Stool and his efforts to promote fairness and balance in traditional and political institutions.

The celebrant was also praised for establishing the Kogi Central Power Revolution Committee, an initiative Obadaki said was aimed at promoting equitable power distribution between Okene/Ogori-Magongo Federal Constituency and other parts of the senatorial district.

He said the initiative reflected Salawu’s commitment to ensuring that political opportunities were not concentrated in the hands of a few but distributed equitably to accommodate diverse interests, including minority groups within the district.

Obadaki maintained that such interventions were critical to strengthening social cohesion, building trust and promoting political stability, noting that lasting peace could only thrive where people felt recognised, represented and treated fairly.

He said Salawu’s political journey offered important lessons in leadership, courage, political negotiation, community service and the pursuit of justice, adding that his contributions had created enduring footprints for future generations.

“Your legacy is a continuing process, and with time, its full significance will become even more evident,” he said.

Obadaki, who extended the felicitations on behalf of himself and his family, prayed God to grant the former deputy governor renewed strength, sound health, wisdom and many more fruitful years of service to humanity.

He also wished him greater accomplishments and fulfilment, expressing hope that the seeds of his contributions would continue to yield benefits for generations to come.

Signed: Husseini Obadaki, Abuja, FCT.