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The Lagos State Ministry of Culture and Tourism has announced its grand plans for the Greater Lagos Countdown 2025, a New Year’s Eve celebration featuring global Afrobeat stars and a lineup of electrifying performances.
While the event promises to unite the state’s five IBILE divisions—Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe—residents of Ikorodu are crying foul over what they perceive as a deliberate sidelining of their division in the event’s artist allocations.
According to the lineup, Afrobeat heavyweights like Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, and Olamide are set to dazzle audiences at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) on Lagos Island. Meanwhile, Ikorodu and other divisions are left with less prominent acts, raising eyebrows over the event’s inclusivity.
Waliu Adeyeri, a vocal resident of Ikorodu, didn’t hold back in his critique of the organisers. “It’s disheartening that our talents aren’t given the same platform to shine alongside global superstars. The people of Ikorodu deserve better,” Adeyeri remarked in a recent commentary.
He went on to challenge the state government’s perceived neglect of Ikorodu, saying, “This isn’t just about music. It’s about recognition. We are not second-class citizens. Why should Lagos Island always take the spotlight?”
Known for its rich cultural heritage and rising stars, Ikorodu has consistently proven itself as a vibrant cultural hub. Locals argue that bringing A-list artists to Ikorodu would not only foster unity but also inspire its budding talents to aim higher.
“Imagine Burna Boy and Tiwa Savage sharing a stage with our local stars. That’s the kind of energy we need to light up Ikorodu!” one resident commented.
As the countdown to December 31, 2024, begins, stakeholders and prominent figures from Ikorodu, including Olalekan Biliamin, Rep. Babajimi Benson, and Wasiu Adeshina, have been called upon to advocate for equal representation.
