Charly Boy Reveals How ‘His’ Gbagada Bus Stop Got Its Name

The veteran entertainer and human rights activist, Charles Oputa, has finally pulled back the curtain and shared the heartwarming, and perhaps a little surprising, story behind the naming of the iconic “Charly Boy” bus stop in Gbagada, Lagos!

Can you feel that sense of nostalgia and curiosity? This isn’t just about a name on a signpost; it’s about a legacy of community contribution that earned him a unique honor, long before the recent controversies.

A Community’s Tribute: More Than Just a Name

According to Charly Boy himself, the bus stop wasn’t named after him by some official decree from above. Oh no, it was a much more organic, heartfelt gesture! He revealed that the bus stop was named after him in the early 90s directly because of his profound contributions to the community. Imagine that – a community so touched by an individual’s benevolence that they decide to name a landmark after him!

In an interview on Channels TV, Charly Boy, with his characteristic blend of humility and quiet pride, detailed the extent of his involvement. He explained that he had provided support to a diverse range of individuals within the community. We’re talking about:

• Military personnel
• Pensioners
• Okada riders (motorcycle taxi operators)
• Students (he even offered scholarships to some!)

He emphasized that people from “all walks of life” in the community had benefited from his generosity and efforts. “Once upon a time, I used to live at the bus stop,” he recalled, painting a picture of his direct presence and engagement. “People who were at Gbagada at the time felt it was just the right thing to name a bus stop after me because I contributed to that community.”

He continued, with a slight reluctance to boast, “I don’t like talking about what I have done and what I have not done but I tried for my community at the time I was there. So because of what I had done, the people thought it wise to name the bus stop after me, and that’s how it all started.” This truly highlights that the naming was a grassroots initiative, a genuine expression of gratitude from the people he served. It’s a powerful testament to the impact of direct, personal community service.

The Evolution of a Landmark: From Charly Boy to Olamide Baddo

Of course, as we now know, the bus stop has recently undergone a significant change. It was renamed “Olamide Baddo Bus Stop” after the incredibly popular indigenous rapper and music executive, Olamide. This recent development has sparked a lot of conversation, especially given Charly Boy’s earlier, somewhat “silly and petty” reaction to the change.

However, understanding the origin of the name “Charly Boy Bus Stop” adds a crucial layer to the narrative. It wasn’t just a random designation; it was a living tribute from a grateful community to a man who, in his own words, “tried for them.”

This story beautifully illustrates how public spaces can become living monuments to individuals who make a tangible difference in people’s lives. It’s a reminder that true impact often comes from direct engagement and selfless contribution, earning a place in the hearts and, sometimes, even the landmarks of a community. Charly Boy’s “records” in Gbagada are indeed hard to touch, etched not just in official documents, but in the memories and gratitude of the people he served.