Lagos PDP criticises street renaming, warns against marginalising non-indigenes
The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the recent renaming of streets in some parts of the state, saying the move could divide the people and damage Lagos’ image as a diverse and inclusive city.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the name changes have already sparked protests and backlash in some local government areas, especially from communities where streets that previously bore Igbo names were renamed.
In a statement released on Thursday, Mr. Hakeem Olalemi, PDP Vice-Chairman for Lagos Central, advised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to reconsider the decision, warning that it appeared to target specific groups in the state.
“The Lagos PDP is hereby rejecting in totality the renaming of streets by some council chairmen,” he said. “We should not erase history because of politics. It goes against the spirit of unity in diversity.”
Olalemi explained that non-indigenes, especially Igbos and other ethnic groups, have made significant contributions to Lagos’ growth. He noted that some of the street names being removed originally honoured those contributions.
“Most of the affected streets had Igbo names, and this leaves many questions in the hearts of non-indigenes,” he added.
He called the move unconstitutional and said the decision showed poor consultation by the authorities. The PDP is now urging the APC to restore the original names or face potential legal action.
“We cannot erase history in the name of politics. If care is not taken, this kind of arbitrary renaming could lead to unrest,” Olalemi warned.
Residents and human rights groups also speak out
The protest has not only come from political groups. Residents of Ilaje community in Bariga LCDA recently held a protest after their street, ‘Ilaje Road,’ was renamed ‘King Sunny Ade Road’.
Prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana has also condemned the renaming, calling it unconstitutional and urging local councils to respect the law and the people they serve.
Many critics argue that Lagos, known for its cosmopolitan identity, must continue to reflect its diversity in street names, landmarks, and public spaces.
