Deeper Life Bible Church has raised strong objections over what it describes as targeted demolition of its properties across Lagos State by government-affiliated bodies, condemning the actions as harassment and a violation of its rights.
In a statement issued Thursday by its legal counsel, Nojim Tairu & Co., the church claimed several of its branches had been either demolished or threatened without proper legal procedures.
According to the church, locations in Yaba, Olorunishola, and Lawanson were brought down by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), and Surulere Local Government, respectively.
“Deeper Life Bible Church, a longstanding pillar of faith and community service providers with branches in different parts of Lagos State and beyond, strongly condemns the ongoing unjust and unwarranted actions by the Lagos State Government and its agencies, which have systematically targeted some of the church’s properties and locations,” the statement read.
The church described the recent wave of demolitions as part of a pattern of intimidation, noting that in recent months, it had endured mounting pressure from certain state bodies.
“Over the past months, our church has faced an alarming pattern of hostility from certain state agencies, leading to undue harassment, demolition threats, and unwarranted restrictions placed upon our places of worship and community centres,” the statement added.
The church argued that the actions not only infringed on their constitutional rights but also posed a threat to religious liberty and property ownership in Lagos.
It appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene immediately and ensure justice is served, emphasizing that Deeper Life has consistently operated within the law and strived to maintain societal harmony.
“As a church dedicated to uplifting society through spiritual guidance, humanitarian efforts, and social empowerment, we will not relent in our commitment to peace, justice, and truth,” the church declared. “We refuse to be intimidated or silenced by unjust actions. We are prepared to pursue all necessary legal avenues to defend our rights and ensure that Deeper Life Bible Church remains a sanctuary of hope and faith for all.”
The church also called on citizens, religious leaders, human rights organizations, and the global community to support it as it challenges what it termed “religious oppression and property rights violations.”
In response, Lagos State’s Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, denied any form of hostility toward the church from the state government.
“The government of Lagos State, under Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, 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,” Omotoso said.
He explained that LAMATA, responsible for rail infrastructure, only conducts demolitions to make way for railway development—and with compensation.
“I’m aware of the Deeper Life matter, and that was the one demolished by a local government, and that is a local matter,” he added.
Omotoso noted that the issue was under review and acknowledged that members of the church had lodged formal complaints. He said efforts were underway through the Governor’s Special Adviser on Religious Matters (Christian) to mediate the situation.
“All I can say is that the government has nothing against Deeper Life. Governor Sanwo-Olu has run Lagos without any discrimination whatsoever. Unfortunately, this happened, but the government is investigating it,” the commissioner assured.
