The Deeper Life Bible Church has turned down a ₦10 million compensation offered by the Surulere Local Government following the demolition of its church building at 36 Aina Street, Lawanson, in Surulere, Lagos.
Church spokesperson, Mr. Taiwo Kupolati, who disclosed this in a media interview on Friday, said the building was demolished on May 27 by officials of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).
He added that members of the congregation are now questioning the legality of the demolition.
Kupolati stated that the church is demanding either a properly assessed and fair compensation or relocation to an alternative site within the area to ensure worship activities can continue.
“For a fair resolution, we expect a proper valuation of the property. The ₦10 million offered does not reflect the true value,” he said.
In the meantime, the church is also seeking protection for its members from intimidation or harassment while using the land lawfully until the dispute is resolved.
To this end, it has petitioned the Acting Inspector-General of Police for Zone Two.
Kupolati emphasized that the church is committed to resolving the issue through peaceful and legal means.
He noted that although LASBCA was responsible for the demolition, the local government had previously expressed interest in the land.
Meanwhile, Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, has distanced the state government from the incident.
He said the demolition was a local government affair and not directed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
“The state government respects Deeper Life Church and had no involvement in the demolition.
We are currently engaging the church through the governor’s Special Adviser on Christian Religious Matters,” Omotoso said.