The Deeper Life Bible Church has rejected a ₦10 million compensation offered by the Surulere Local Government for the demolition of its church building located at 36 Aina Street, Lawanson, Surulere, Lagos State.
The church described the amount as inadequate and is demanding a proper valuation of the property to ensure fair compensation. It also called for protection of its members as they continue lawful activities on the land while the demolition issue is being resolved.
Speaking with journalists in Lagos on Friday, the church’s spokesperson, Mr. Taiwo Kupolati, confirmed that the building was demolished on May 27 by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).
Kupolati explained that aside from a fair payout, the church is also asking to be relocated within the same area to allow its congregation continue worship without disruption. He added that the church has already reported the matter to the Acting Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone Two, seeking protection for its members against any harassment or intimidation while the case is pending.
“As a peaceful organisation, we have chosen the legal route. We were told that LASBCA acted independently, but we know the local government had shown interest in the land before,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, clarified that the state government had no hand in the demolition and holds the Deeper Life Church in high regard.
“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has always promoted fairness. The state government did not order the demolition; it was handled at the local government level,” Omotoso explained.
He added that discussions have already begun with the church’s representatives through the governor’s Special Adviser on Religious Matters (Christian).
ADEOLA KUNLE
