‘You Can’t Erase a Legacy’ — Charly Boy Reacts as Lagos Council Renames Bus Stop in Olamide’s Honour
Controversy has trailed the recent decision by Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos to rename the popular ‘Charly Boy Bus Stop’ to ‘Baddo Bus Stop’, in tribute to acclaimed rapper Olamide ‘Baddo’.
The change, announced by Kolade David, Chairman of Bariga LCDA, was part of a broader initiative to recognise notable Nigerian figures. Others honoured include music icons 9ice, Tony Tetuila, King Sunny Ade, and football star Bukayo Saka, with streets named after them.
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But the move to drop Charly Boy’s name from the iconic bus stop has sparked a storm of criticism, especially from the man at the centre of the controversy—Charles Oputa, the fiery activist known as Area Fada.
Taking to social media, Charly Boy fired back, calling the renaming an act of “legacy erasure”, which he believes is politically driven.
“You can rename a place… but you can’t rename a legacy,” he posted. “You can replace the signboard… but you can’t erase the spirit.”
He claimed the decision was rooted in fear—fear of his long-standing criticism of political oppression and injustice.
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“This is not just about a bus stop. This is about fear. Fear of a boy who refused to bow. Fear of a man who challenged the oppressors… Bariga, Gbagada, the entire Lagos knows the truth.”
The 75-year-old activist reminded Nigerians that the name ‘Charly Boy Bus Stop’ was not the creation of politicians but was born from grassroots recognition of his decades-long social activism and influence in Nigerian pop culture.
“That name was given by the people—the same people I fought for and walked with. They may change the signboard, but they can’t erase the movement. Area Fada no dey finish.”
In a defiant tone, he emphasised that legacy isn’t defined by street signs, but by impact, truth, and courage.
“Charly Boy is a warning. A symbol. A voice that shook tables for decades. You may change the name. But you will never silence the fire.”