The Deeper Life Bible Church has called for commensurate compensation and protection of its members following the demolition of its church building located at 36 Aina Street, Lawanson, Surulere, Lagos.
The structure was brought down on May 27, 2025, by officials of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), sparking outrage among members and the wider Christian community.
In an interview with journalists on Thursday, the church’s spokesman, Mr. Taiwo Kupolati, described the demolition as controversial and destituting, raising questions about the legality of the action.
“For compensation to be seen as fair, the Church is demanding a proper valuation of the demolished property to determine its true worth,” Kupolati said. “The earlier ₦10 million offered by the Surulere Local Government Council was rejected by the Church.”
He stated that the Church would alternatively accept a land allocation within the vicinity to enable members to continue their lawful worship activities without hindrance.
Kupolati also disclosed that the matter had been reported to the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Onikan, Lagos, to seek protection for members who may wish to access the property while the dispute remains unresolved.
“As a peace-loving organisation, the Church has taken legal steps and approached the police for intervention. The police, in turn, advised both parties to seek a peaceful resolution through dialogue,” he added.
The Church spokesperson alleged that despite denials by the local government, available evidence suggests the Surulere Local Government had earlier shown interest in the property and may have influenced the demolition.
While the local council has distanced itself from authorising the action, the Lagos State Government has also denied involvement.
Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, clarified that the state government did not sanction the demolition, stating that it was a local government matter.
“Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration promotes fairness and holds the Deeper Life Church in high regard,” Omotoso said. “Discussions have already commenced with the Church, and the Governor’s Special Adviser on Religious Matters (Christian) is engaging with their representatives.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that efforts at reconciliation between the Church and local government authorities have so far yielded no resolution.