(In Nigeria) Activist Charly Boy Accuses Bariga LCDA of Erasing His Legacy After Bus Stop Renamed to Olamide Baddoo

Controversy is brewing in Lagos after the Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA) renamed the well-known “Charly Boy Bus Stop” after music star Olamide Baddo. The move has drawn sharp criticism from veteran activist and entertainer Charly Boy, who called the decision “petty” and accused local authorities of trying to erase his legacy.

Charly Boy argued that his nickname for the bus stop was not government-issued, but rather a name embraced by the people over time  a reflection of his impact on the area.

See also: Nigerian Afrobeats singer Ayra Starr Performs with Coldplay in Front of Messi in Miami

In defence of the decision, outgoing Bariga LCDA Chairman Kolade Alabi said the renaming was meant to honour individuals like Olamide who have brought global attention to Bariga through their talents and achievements.

However, the move has sparked broader debate. Legal experts, including Dr. Monday Ubani, have warned that renaming historically recognized landmarks without public consultation can fuel ethnic tensions and erase non-Yoruba contributions to the city’s identity. He described the change as a step backward in terms of inclusivity and cultural respect.

The renaming has since ignited conversations on social media and within civic circles about who gets to shape Lagos’ cultural memory  and at what cost.