Veteran Nigerian musician and activist, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has spoken out against what he described as rising ethnic politics in Lagos State, insisting that the city belongs to all Nigerians, not just the Yoruba ethnic group.
Speaking during an interview on News Central TV, Charly Boy likened Lagos to New York City, calling it a melting pot of cultures and a symbol of diversity in Nigeria.
“Lagos is like the New York of Nigeria—a city of immigrants. Its energy and success come from people of all backgrounds, not one tribe alone,” he said.
Charly Boy emphasized that Lagos, as Nigeria’s former capital, has historically attracted people from every part of the country who now call it home. According to him, the city thrives because of its cultural and ethnic diversity, not despite it.
Street Name Controversy Sparks Reaction
The remarks come in the wake of the renaming of a bus stop in Bariga, Lagos, which previously bore Charly Boy’s name. The location was recently renamed Olamide Baddo Bus Stop, in honor of indigenous rapper Olamide Adedeji.
Reacting to the change, Charly Boy expressed disappointment, suggesting that the decision was motivated by tribal sentiment rather than merit or contribution to the city’s culture.
“Lagos used to be Nigeria’s capital, and that gave it a cosmopolitan edge. Now it feels like tribal politics is erasing that legacy,” he said.
He further cautioned against the dangers of identity politics, drawing a parallel to rising nationalism and exclusion in countries like the United States.
“Just like New York, Lagos grew from being inclusive. That’s its strength. But now, it feels like some people want to rewrite that narrative,” he added.
A Call for Unity in Nigeria’s Urban Heartbeat
Charly Boy’s comments have stirred conversation online, with many Nigerians debating the issue of ethnic ownership, identity, and inclusivity in Lagos—a city often seen as the economic and cultural capital of the nation.
While the renaming of public landmarks is not uncommon, critics argue that such actions can deepen ethnic divides if not handled sensitively.
Charly Boy concluded by reiterating that Lagos belongs to every Nigerian who contributes to its development.
“It’s our collective home. We all built Lagos.”
