Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has faulted the growing trend of naming public facilities after individuals, insisting that such actions are meaningless in a country plagued by hunger, poverty, and underdevelopment.
Obi’s comment followed the controversial renaming of the iconic Charly Boy Bus Stop in Lagos State to “Olamide Baddo Bus Stop” by the Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA), a move that has drawn widespread criticism and debate across the country.
In a viral video circulating on social media, Obi, during an interaction with activist and entertainer Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, described the renaming issue as “irrelevant” in the face of Nigeria’s pressing socio-economic crises.
“To me, it is totally irrelevant when millions of Nigerians are unsure where their next meal will come from,” Obi said. “As governor, I refused to name any street, building, or project after myself or anyone. I didn’t even commission any project. I just wanted the work to be done, not for it to carry my name.”
He revealed that even when a hospital tried to name a newly built facility after him or his mother during his tenure, he rejected it. “It wasn’t my money; it was public money. Why should my name be on it?” he asked.
Obi’s stance reflects his minimalist approach to governance, which has become a talking point in political circles. His comments also highlight his long-standing criticism of flamboyant leadership styles and self-glorifying political culture.
The renaming of Charly Boy Bus Stop, which was announced alongside several other street name changes by Bariga LCDA, has sparked outrage, with many residents and fans of Charly Boy expressing disapproval and calling for a reversal of the decision.
Obi’s intervention, rather than focusing solely on the Lagos street saga, redirected attention to what he considers the misplaced priorities of political officeholders.
“What we need are functioning institutions and systems that work for the people, not vanity projects that stroke egos,” Obi added.
As Nigerians continue to react to the renaming controversy, Obi’s comments have reignited conversations around public accountability, governance values, and the need for leaders to prioritize citizens’ welfare over personal or political recognition.
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