Concerns have been raised by members of the Deeper Life Bible Church in Lagos over what they describe as a coordinated effort by some state agencies to take over properties that the church legally acquired. They are appealing to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to look into what they believe to be unfair actions carried out by various government bodies in the state.
In a statement issued by the stakeholders, they claimed that the church has been subjected to ongoing harassment and disruptions by government agencies, which have resulted in the destruction of several of its properties. According to them, these actions have persisted for several years and have caused considerable distress within the church community.
Among the properties mentioned are the Deeper Life Bible Church in Yaba, which was reportedly demolished by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, and the Olorunishola Church, brought down by the Lagos State Building Control Agency. Also affected is the Lawanson Church, which the stakeholders said was destroyed by the Surulere Local Government. The most recent demolition involved the Deeper Life Church in Lawanson, which was allegedly pulled down without notice.
The church’s legal counsel, Mr Nojeem Tairu, confirmed the demolitions and said the church has not received any form of compensation. He questioned the rationale behind these acts and expressed concern that government agencies often justify them under the guise of development projects.
Tairu noted in particular that after the demolition of the Lawanson Church, the location was converted into an extension of a local market, raising suspicion that the act may have been intentional and not merely administrative. He described the development as unjust and called for accountability from those involved.
The stakeholders urged Governor Sanwo-Olu and relevant state officials to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and to ensure that fairness and justice are upheld. They stressed that the Deeper Life Bible Church has consistently operated within the boundaries of the law and has made efforts to promote peace and unity in the community.
They also called on civil society, religious bodies, human rights advocates and the global Christian community to support the church’s efforts in seeking protection and fair treatment. According to the stakeholders, the church remains committed to its mission of peace and faith but will not allow itself to be silenced by what they see as unjust treatment.
They assured that all legal channels will be explored to challenge the demolitions and protect the church’s properties, noting that Deeper Life Bible Church will continue to stand as a place of worship and hope.
Efforts to get an official reaction from the Lagos State government have so far been unsuccessful. However, a senior official at the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, confirmed that the Yaba Church was removed to create space for a public bus terminal. He stated that compensation has been paid for some of the buildings affected by such projects but said he could not confirm whether the Church had received any payment
