Veteran entertainer and social critic, Charles Oputa, widely known as Charly Boy, has downplayed the controversy surrounding the recent renaming of a popular Lagos bus stop that once bore his name. In an exclusive appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Briefing on Tuesday, Charly Boy made it clear that he is indifferent to the development, describing it as a trivial distraction from more pressing national issues.
The bus stop, which was unofficially referred to as “Charly Boy Bus Stop” by residents of Bariga in Lagos State, was recently renamed “Badoo Bus Stop” by the outgoing chairman of Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Kolade Alabi. The change, which took effect over the weekend, has drawn mixed reactions both online and within the community.
Reacting to the development, Charly Boy said, “It doesn’t matter to me. Anyone who has done something meaningful for their community can take the shine. I’m indifferent. That’s not our priority right now.”
Charly Boy emphasized that symbolic gestures like naming public infrastructure after individuals should not overshadow the urgent need for national transformation. “There are bigger things we should be concerned about—like making sure that come 2027, our votes count. That’s what the indicators are pointing to, and that’s what we should all be focused on,” he added.
Known for his unconventional style and fearless activism, Charly Boy has long been a vocal critic of corruption, poor governance, and electoral malpractice in Nigeria. He was at the forefront of several national protests in recent years, including the “Our Mumu Don Do” movement, which campaigned for political accountability.
8When asked if he felt disrespected by the renaming, the 73-year-old icon dismissed any such notion, stating that legacies are built through impact—not plaques or signposts. “Legacy isn’t in a bus stop. Legacy is in the lives you’ve touched, the fights you’ve fought, and the truth you’ve stood for,” he asserted.
Despite the move by the Bariga LCDA chairman, several residents still refer to the location by its former name, a nod to Charly Boy’s long-standing influence and connection to the area. Some locals have criticized the renaming as politically motivated, with allegations that it was done without due consultation or transparency.
Meanwhile, the new name, “Badoo Bus Stop,” has raised eyebrows, as critics argue that the title may be linked to previously controversial elements in Lagos pop culture and criminal associations. However, the council has yet to issue an official statement clarifying the rationale behind the name change.
As public reactions continue to swirl, Charly Boy remains focused on advocating for electoral reforms, stressing the need for Nigerians to prioritize governance and the integrity of the 2027 general elections over symbolic titles.