PDP Condemns Lagos Street Renaming Warns of Legal Action

The Lagos chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has spoken against the recent renaming of several streets in the state, warning that the move could trigger unrest and damage the unity of the city if not reversed.

The party’s reaction comes amid growing public anger following the decision by some local government chairmen to change names of well-known streets and landmarks. The issue has sparked protests, including one by Ilaje community in Bariga who opposed the renaming of Ilaje Road to King Sunny Ade Road.

In a statement released on Thursday, PDP Lagos Central Vice Chairman Hakeem Olalemi criticised the action, accusing the All Progressives Congress-led councils of using street names to sideline certain groups. He said many of the renamed streets originally honoured people from various ethnic backgrounds who helped build Lagos, and removing those names sends the wrong message.

Olalemi argued that the decision was taken without proper consultation and warned that it could threaten the peaceful coexistence that defines the state. He described the renaming as unconstitutional and claimed it had already created tension among residents, especially non-indigenes.

He urged the ruling party to restore the original names and warned that if this is not done, the PDP would consider going to court to stop what it sees as an attack on the inclusive identity of Lagos.

The party believes the move is politically motivated and risks wiping away the diverse history that has shaped the state. It also fears that continued silence over the matter may lead to wider unrest.

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana had earlier declared the street name changes illegal, pointing out that local government councils, not individual chairmen, have the authority to carry out such actions.

The controversy continues to attract attention from across the state as residents, civil society, and political voices call for a return to due process and respect for community identity.