By Peter Dansu Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government has stirred debate and curiosity across Lagos as it replaces over 20 non-indigenous stree...
By Peter Dansu
Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government has stirred debate and curiosity across Lagos as it replaces over 20 non-indigenous street names in the Ajegunle axis with new ones rooted in Yoruba heritage.
The move, though officially implemented last year, only gained wide public attention this week after a council memo on the renaming exercise surfaced on social media and began circulating widely.
The memo, signed by the Council Manager, reads in part:
"This is to notify the general public that the old names of the aforementioned streets have been revoked… the names have been replaced with new ones."
Among the notable changes, Imo Eze Street is now Layiwola Oluwa Street, George Street becomes Daddy Showkey Street — honoring the popular Ajegunle-born musician — and Queens Street is now Kola Balogun Street. Other renamed roads include Kirikiri Road, now Moruf Oyekunle Road, and Uzoh Street, now Kalejaiye Adeboye Street.
The full list features a variety of new names, many of which reflect Yoruba cultural identity, notable personalities, and community influencers.
Not a Recent Decision
Although the memo is just now making rounds, investigations by Badagry Today reveal that the decision to rename the streets was made as far back as last year. An outgoing executive member of the council, who spoke anonymously, confirmed that the implementation had already taken place since last year.
“The changes were part of an effort to reinforce our cultural heritage and celebrate local heroes,” the official said.
Mixed Reactions Trail the Announcement
The development has drawn mixed reactions from residents and online commentators. While some applaud the move as a bold step toward cultural affirmation, others question the need for renaming long-standing streets without broad consultation.
“I grew up on Uzor Street — it’s part of my identity,” said a long-time resident. “I understand the cultural point, but they should have asked us first.”
On the other hand, community voices like youth activist Tunde Ajayi hailed the decision. “Ajegunle is a Yoruba community. It’s only fair that our streets reflect our history and values,” he said.
As the conversation continues both online and on the streets, the renamed signs are expected to become more prominent, gradually phasing out the old names across maps, postal addresses, and local landmarks.
For now, Ajegunle is adjusting to its new identity — one street at a time.
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