By Bilesanmi Abayomi
A debate has emerged over the name of Mandela Market in Agboyi-Ketu, Lagos, following public inquiries about its origin and relevance. The discussion was triggered by a social media post from Twitter user HRH Banke Oniru, who questioned why the market was named after the South African leader, Nelson Mandela.
In response, the Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mayor Dele Oshinowo, clarified that his administration was not responsible for naming the market. “The name Mandela Market has been associated with this space since its inception, and while I did not name it, my administration took decisive action to transform it,” Oshinowo stated.
He explained that the market had deteriorated over time, becoming a security concern. This prompted the government to demolish and reconstruct it into a modern commercial hub.
His remarks have drawn mixed reactions online. While some residents, such as Oluwasegun, questioned the need for a debate over the name, others, like Yusuf Abeeb, argued that it held significance for longtime residents. Some suggested that the government should consider renaming the market to reflect its transformation.
The debate underscores broader concerns over market identity, historical ties, and government intervention in public spaces. While many residents feel a connection to the existing name, others believe a change could better represent the market’s new status.