The Deeper Life Bible Church has strongly criticized the reported demolition of its facilities across several areas in Lagos State by various government agencies.
In a statement released on Thursday by its legal team, Nojim Tairu & Co., the church accused the authorities of unjustly targeting its buildings without following due legal procedures.
Describing the actions as deliberate harassment and unjust treatment, the church cited incidents where its branches in Yaba, Olorunishola, and Lawanson were demolished by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), the Lagos State Building Control Agency, and the Surulere Local Government, respectively.
The statement read in part:
“Deeper Life Bible Church, which has long served as a spiritual and community anchor in Lagos and beyond, denounces the unjust treatment by state agencies that have selectively targeted some of our locations.”
It further alleged that in recent months, the church has been subjected to persistent intimidation, demolition threats, and restrictions by state bodies, all of which hinder its religious and community work.
The church emphasized that such actions infringe on the rights of its congregation and jeopardize core values such as religious freedom, justice, and property ownership. It called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to launch a thorough investigation into the matter.
Reaffirming its commitment to upholding the law and promoting unity, the church urged the wider public, religious organizations, human rights groups, and the global community to support its cause against what it sees as religious and property-related oppression.
“As an institution focused on spiritual, humanitarian, and social upliftment, we remain steadfast in our pursuit of peace, justice, and truth,” the statement continued.
“We are ready to explore all legal avenues to protect our rights and ensure that Deeper Life Bible Church continues to be a place of hope and faith for all.”
Responding to the allegations, Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, stated that the state government holds no ill will toward the church.
According to him, “The Lagos State Government under Governor Sanwo-Olu has a good relationship with Deeper Life. We are allies, and there is no intention to act against their interests.”
He explained that LAMATA is responsible for rail infrastructure development and typically compensates affected parties when demolitions are necessary. Regarding the specific case involving Deeper Life, Omotoso said the demolition was carried out by a local government, which classifies it as a local matter.
Omotoso added that the government is actively looking into the situation.
“We’ve had complaints from church members, and I personally asked the Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian Religious Matters to get involved. He’s already initiated dialogue with them,” he said.
He concluded by assuring the public that the Sanwo-Olu administration is committed to fairness and does not discriminate against any religious body, noting that the issue is currently under review.
