Veteran entertainer and activist, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has responded with indifference to the recent renaming of the “Charly Boy Bus Stop” in Gbagada, Lagos, urging Nigerians to focus on more pressing national concerns, particularly the upcoming 2027 general elections.
The landmark bus stop, unofficially named after Charly Boy due to his historic ties to the community, was recently renamed “Olamide Baddo Bus Stop” by the Bariga Local Council Development Area, in honour of music star Olamide Adedeji, popularly known as ‘Baddo’. The decision has sparked mixed reactions among residents and social media users, with some applauding the change, while others questioned its relevance and timing.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Charly Boy made it clear that he remains unbothered by the renaming. For him, the real concern lies not in symbolic honours, but in Nigeria’s political and social direction.
“Those are not priorities. Whether you name it Charly Boy or Olamide Baddo, it’s neither here nor there.” he said, adding that anyone who has contributed meaningfully to their community is worthy of recognition.
Charly Boy recalled that the bus stop was named after him in the early 1990s by residents of Gbagada, shortly after one of his hit songs gained popularity. He said the naming was in recognition of his active contributions to the local community, which included scholarships and support for various groups, from military pensioners to Okada riders and youth.
While some viewed the renaming as a slight, Charly Boy dismissed any such notion, reiterating that legacy is not defined by signposts or public structures, but by lasting impact.
More importantly, he urged Nigerians to shift their attention to the future of the country, warning against being distracted by what he termed “petty matters.” With the 2027 elections on the horizon, he called on citizens to demand accountability, electoral reform, and leaders who are genuinely committed to the welfare of the people.
“What our priority should be is the 2027 election, that our vote should count,” he said.
According to him, Nigeria needs a leader who is truthful, people-oriented, and determined to steer the country toward self-reliance and productivity, rather than one who builds personal empires while the nation struggles.
“One that is truthful, one that really shows that he has the interest of the masses at heart. One that is willing to do everything possible for us to be self-independent, to be productive, not to be consumers. One that has human sympathy, one that is not over-religious but has love for humanity.”
