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Lagoss Street Renaming A Dangerous Gamewith Historyand Identity

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, August 19th 2025 at 23:03 GMT by LEADERSHIP Newspaper
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Lagos's Street Renaming: A Dangerous Game with History and Identity

Lagos is changing, and not always in ways that foster unity and progress. The recent wave of street renaming initiatives, particularly those honoring former President Muhammadu Buhari and other prominent figures, has ignited a fierce debate within the city and beyond. While proponents tout these changes as acts of recognition and appreciation, critics – including former presidential aide Reno Omokri – warn they are divisive, disrespectful to Lagos’s rich history, and ultimately, a dangerous gamble with the city's identity.

The core issue isn't simply about renaming streets; it's about who gets remembered and how. The current push, largely driven by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, has seen several key roads in Lagos – including those in Victoria Island, Ikeja, and Alimosho – officially renamed to bear Buhari’s name or that of other political figures. This move, however, hasn't been met with universal acclaim. Many residents feel it disregards the city’s diverse heritage and prioritizes political expediency over genuine historical significance.

Reno Omokri, a vocal critic of the renaming scheme, argues that Lagos deserves to honor individuals who have contributed positively to its development and well-being – people who represent the spirit and resilience of the city itself. He points out that many streets currently bear names of colonial figures or those associated with historical events, reflecting different eras and influences in Lagos’s evolution. Replacing these names with those of recent political leaders, particularly when those leaders are perceived as controversial, risks alienating significant portions of the population.

The argument extends beyond mere aesthetics; it touches upon deeper questions of identity and belonging. Lagos is a melting pot, a city built on the contributions of people from all over Nigeria and beyond. Its streets should reflect this diversity, acknowledging the various narratives that have shaped its character. Imposing names solely based on political affiliation risks erasing or diminishing the stories of those who came before and contributed to the city’s unique fabric.

Furthermore, Omokri highlights the practical implications of these frequent changes. Renaming streets creates confusion for residents, delivery services, emergency responders, and tourists alike. The cost of updating signage, maps, and navigation systems is also a significant burden on taxpayers, especially when those funds could be better allocated to addressing pressing infrastructure needs like improving roads, sanitation, and public transportation – issues that directly impact the daily lives of Lagosians.

The renaming initiative isn't entirely unprecedented. Historically, cities around the world have renamed streets for various reasons - to commemorate important events, honor influential figures, or rectify past injustices. However, the current situation in Lagos feels different. Critics argue it lacks a clear and transparent process, with decisions seemingly driven by political motivations rather than genuine historical merit. The speed at which these changes are being implemented further fuels concerns about a lack of consultation and consideration for public opinion.

The debate also raises questions about the legacy of Muhammadu Buhari himself. While his supporters laud his efforts in certain areas, he remains a divisive figure due to policies perceived as authoritarian and economically challenging. Honoring him with prominent street names risks reopening old wounds and exacerbating existing tensions within Lagos society. As reported by Leadership Nigeria, some residents have expressed discomfort with having streets named after someone whose tenure was marked by significant challenges.

The situation underscores the importance of thoughtful urban planning and a commitment to preserving cultural heritage. Cities are living organisms that evolve over time, but this evolution should be guided by principles of inclusivity, respect for history, and a genuine desire to create spaces that foster a sense of belonging for all residents. Simply slapping names onto streets without considering the broader context risks creating more division than unity.

Ultimately, Lagos’s street renaming saga serves as a cautionary tale. It highlights the potential pitfalls of prioritizing political agendas over historical sensitivity and community engagement. While recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to society is important, it should be done in a way that respects the city's diverse heritage and fosters a sense of shared identity – not one that risks alienating its people and erasing their stories. The current path being taken feels less like honoring legacies and more like playing with fire, potentially igniting resentment and further fracturing an already complex urban landscape.