Lagos, Nigeria – The Deeper Life Bible Church, a prominent evangelical denomination, has condemned what it describes as the “unjust and unwarranted” demolition of its properties in various parts of Lagos State by government agencies.
In a statement issued Thursday by its legal representatives, Nojim Tairu & Co., the church accused the agencies of systematically targeting its properties without due process, terming the actions as “systematic harassment.” The statement alleged that church branches in Yaba, Olorunishola, and Lawanson areas of Lagos were demolished by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), and the Surulere Local Government respectively.
The church asserted that these actions violate the fundamental rights of its faith community and establish “a dangerous precedent that undermined religious freedom, property rights, and justice in the state.” It called on Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to urgently investigate the matter, reiterating its commitment to upholding the law and fostering peace. The church also appealed to citizens, religious groups, human rights advocates, and the international community for solidarity against what it termed “religious oppression and property rights violations,” vowing to pursue all necessary legal avenues.
In response, Gbenga Omotoso, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information, denied any animosity towards the Deeper Life Church. He stated that the government has “nothing against Deeper Life. They are our friends, and we are close to them, so we cannot do anything that will jeopardise their interest.”
Mr. Omotoso clarified that LAMATA operations typically involve demolitions for rail line construction, for which compensation is paid. Regarding the specific incidents, he acknowledged awareness of the Deeper Life matter, categorizing the demolition carried out by a local government as a “local matter.” He confirmed that the government is investigating the incidents, describing them as “unfortunate.”
The Commissioner added that the government has been in discussions with church representatives regarding their complaints and emphasized that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration operates without discrimination.
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