Saki West PDP Fetes Barrister Onijo on Global Peace Hall of Fame Induction

The political landscape of Saki West Local Government Area in Oyo State was alive with celebration on Sunday as stakeholders and leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gathered to honor one of their own, Barrister Sarafadeen Lateef, popularly known as "Onijo." The event was organized to commemorate his recent induction into two prestigious bodies: the International Peace Institute and the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators. The highlight of his professional recognition was the conferment of the "Global Peace Hall of Fame Distinguished Fellowship" by the Institute of Global Peace and Conflict Management, an award that underscores his dedication to sustainable conflict resolution frameworks.

The reception, which drew a significant crowd of party faithful and community leaders, served as a testament to Onijo's influence within and beyond the legal profession. Hon. Adetunji Rafiu Adekunle, the Chairman of the Oyo State Pension Board and chairman of the occasion, delivered a glowing eulogy, describing the honoree as an "industrious and dedicated" figure whose life's work has been centered on nurturing peaceful coexistence. He prayed for Onijo’s continued success, framing the induction not just as a personal victory but as a collective pride for the Saki West community.

Barrister Onijo’s dual induction highlights a career built on the principles of mediation and alternative dispute resolution. As a Fellow of the Global Peace Hall of Fame, he joins a select group of individuals recognized for their inspirational leadership in mitigating societal friction. His new status within the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators further solidifies his professional standing, positioning him as a key resource person for resolving complex disputes without recourse to protracted litigation. This expertise is particularly valuable in a political environment often characterized by internal friction and communal disagreements.

In his remarks, the Oyo State Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Hon. Niyi Adebisi, emphasized the unifying power of the occasion. He noted that the "cord that connects us together is PDP," using the platform to call for unity within the party ranks. Adebisi urged other members to emulate Onijo’s example of service and professional excellence, suggesting that the party's strength lies in the quality of its individual members. His comments reflected the broader sentiment that Onijo’s achievements serve as a beacon of inspiration for the younger generation of politicians and professionals in the Oke-Ogun region.

The gathering was a roll call of local political heavyweights. Notable attendees included Engineer Hamid Gbadamosi, a member of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT); Alhaji Lateef Koomi; and Alhaji Waheed Oluwakemi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters (Former Ifedapo). Also present were Mr. Kehinde Adetola, the former Vice Chairman of Saki West Local Government, and the incumbent council chairman. Their collective presence signaled a strong vote of confidence in Onijo’s leadership and contributions to the party’s stability in the zone.

For the Saki West PDP, the celebration was more than a social event; it was a strategic affirmation of their human capital. By rallying around a figure recognized for peace-building, the party is subtly projecting an image of stability and maturity. Barrister Onijo’s induction into the Hall of Fame provides the local chapter with a narrative of competence and global relevance, reinforcing their standing in the state's political equation. As the event concluded with prayers and festivities, the prevailing message was one of solidarity and a shared commitment to the progress of the community through peaceful means.