Nigerian activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has strongly criticized the Lagos State Government’s recent decision to rename several streets and landmarks across the state, describing the move as “xenophobic,” “divisive,” and politically motivated.
The backlash follows a viral video showing officials renaming the popular Charly Boy Bus Stop in Lagos to Olamide Baddo Bus Stop, after the popular Nigerian musician.
The renaming exercise has triggered sharp reactions from residents and Nigerians online, many of whom questioned the rationale and alleged political undertones of the decision.
Sowore: It’s a Political Vendetta
In a statement released on Saturday, Sowore alleged that the street renaming was part of a broader agenda aimed at punishing political opponents and targeting specific ethnic groups, particularly those who opposed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during previous elections.
“This appears to be part of a xenophobic and divisive agenda, orchestrated to target specific ethnic groups and punish political opponents of the ruling APC regime in Lagos,” Sowore said.
He argued that the renaming process lacked public consultation and due process, emphasizing that Lagos belongs to all Nigerians, not a single tribe or political party.
“The manner in which these renamings are being executed leaves no doubt that this is not merely a matter of urban planning, but a calculated political vendetta,” he added.
Call for Reversal and Civic Resistance
Sowore demanded the immediate reversal of the street name changes and called on Lagosians and Nigerians at large to resist what he called the “creeping authoritarianism” under the guise of civic reorganization.
“These actions must be reversed. The public must resist this creeping authoritarianism masked as civic order. We will not watch in silence as Lagos is weaponized for tribal, political, or ideological cleansing,” he said.
Public Reaction
The move has further stoked tension in Lagos, a city known for its ethnic diversity and political complexities. Critics say the renaming of public spaces without broad stakeholder input could further deepen divisions among residents.
As of the time of filing this report, the Lagos State Government has not issued a formal statement responding to the criticism.
