In a powerful statement that echoes the concerns of many Lagosians and history enthusiasts, retired Army Major General Tajudeen Olanrewaju has described the recent street renaming in Lagos State as an “inconceivable injustice.” The changes, implemented by the Bariga Local Government, have sparked widespread debate about the preservation of Lagos’s cultural and historical identity.

The authorities recently renamed several streets and bus stops, replacing long-standing traditional names with those of contemporary political figures and celebrities. Notably, the Charly Boy bus stop was renamed after Olamide, while other streets were renamed in honour of President Bola Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other prominent Nigerians. While some may see this as a gesture of progress or patriotism, Olanrewaju firmly disagrees.

He argues that these renamings are a deliberate attempt to erase Lagos’s rich history and heritage. “These streets and bus stops are part of our collective identity,” he states. “Changing their names without regard for history or the feelings of the indigenous people is an injustice of the highest order.”

Olanrewaju emphasises that Lagos’s history predates colonial rule and even the current political leadership. He warns that such moves threaten to marginalise the voices of the indigenous residents who have long considered these streets their own. “Lagos belongs to its people—especially its original inhabitants,” he insists.

He also criticises the trend of replacing historical names with those of individuals with no direct connection to Lagos’s history, cautioning that this practice risks diluting the city’s unique cultural identity. For him, restoring the original street names would be a step toward respecting Lagos’s heritage and acknowledging its history.

Addressing critics and the government, Olanrewaju reminds them that political power is transient. “What remains forever is our history,” he asserts. “We must protect and preserve our cultural legacy for future generations.”

In conclusion, the retired general calls on Lagos State authorities and its citizens to reconsider these renamings and work toward restoring the original names. By doing so, Lagos can retain its historical authenticity and honour the legacy of those who built the city long before today’s political figures.

Lagos’s history is our heritage. Let’s protect it.