Deeper Life Bible Church has called for appropriate compensation and protection following the demolition of its worship centre at 36 Aina Street, Lawanson, Surulere, Lagos.
The church’s spokesperson, Mr Taiwo Kupolati, stated during an interview with journalists on Friday that the structure was demolished on 27 May by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).
“Our members are raising questions on the legality of the action. For commensurate compensation to be made, the church wants proper valuation of the property,” he said.
Kupolati disclosed that the church rejected a ₦10 million compensation offer from the Surulere Local Government, stating it was inadequate. Instead, the church is seeking either a fair valuation-based settlement or relocation to a nearby site to continue its activities.
He added that the church has petitioned the acting Inspector-General of Police in Zone Two, requesting protection from harassment during worship while the matter is being addressed.
“We were told LASBCA acted independently, but we know the local government had earlier indicated interest in the land,” he said, noting that the church had chosen to follow legal procedures to resolve the matter.
In response, Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, clarified that the state government had no involvement in the demolition.
“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has always promoted fairness. We hold Deeper Life Church in high regard. The state government did not order the demolition,” he said.
Omotoso confirmed that discussions had commenced with church representatives, with the governor’s Special Adviser on Religious Matters (Christian) leading engagement efforts.
(NAN)