The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized the recent renaming of streets in some parts of the state, describing the move as unconstitutional and politically motivated. The party expressed concern over what it called the arbitrary replacement of street names, particularly those with Igbo origins, warning that the decision could ignite unrest and deepen ethnic tensions.
Hakeem Olalemi, PDP Vice-Chairman for Lagos Central, issued a statement on Thursday urging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to reverse the changes immediately. He argued that many of the renamed streets were originally named after individuals from various ethnic backgrounds who had played significant roles in the development of Lagos. According to him, changing those names erases important aspects of the city’s history and undermines its cosmopolitan identity.
Olalemi said the move appears to marginalize a section of society and sends the wrong message to non-indigenes. He emphasized that such decisions should be approached with caution and made only after broad consultations with all stakeholders. He warned that if the changes are not reversed, the PDP may resort to legal action to protect the cultural and historical integrity of the state.
The controversy has sparked public outrage. On Wednesday, residents of the Ilaje community in Bariga Local Council Development Area protested against the renaming of ‘Ilaje Road’ to ‘King Sunny Ade Road.’ Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has also condemned the renaming, calling it unconstitutional and lacking legal backing.
The PDP said the APC must reconsider its actions to prevent possible chaos and ensure that Lagos remains a symbol of unity for all Nigerians.
