Renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has strongly condemned the recent trend of renaming streets and public spaces in Lagos State without proper legal procedures or public consultation. He described the practice as unconstitutional, undemocratic, and a breach of the rights of local communities.

 

In a statement issued on Sunday, Falana criticized several recent cases, including the renaming of the well-known “Charley Boy Bus Stop” in Bariga to “Baddo Bus Stop” by former Bariga LCDA Chairman, Mr. Kolade Alabi. He also referenced reports of streets being named after President Bola Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and industrialist Aliko Dangote allegedly naming streets in honour of the late Mr. Herbert Wigwe and President Tinubu.

 

Falana emphasized that under the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the power to name and number streets lies solely with local government councils, not individuals or local council development areas (LCDAs). He cited the court ruling in Chief Obidi Ume v. Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, which upheld the authority of local governments over street naming.

 

“The unconstitutional takeover of local government functions by LCDAs and individuals in Lagos State has no legal justification,” Falana said.

 

He particularly decried the renaming of Charley Boy Bus Stop—historically named and recognized by the Bariga and Gbagada communities—as disrespectful and authoritarian. According to him, Charley Boy’s legacy in the area contributed to the name’s widespread acceptance and cultural significance.

 

Falana also raised concerns about the selective renaming trend in Lagos, noting that many colonial-era street names remain untouched while names honouring Nigerians with positive contributions are being replaced.

 

He called on local government legislative arms to intervene by halting arbitrary name changes and instituting transparent and inclusive procedures, such as public hearings, to involve residents in decision-making.

 

“Street names should not be changed at the whim of political figures or for ethnic glorification,” Falana warned, adding that such actions undermine democratic principles in a diverse city like Lagos.