Some concerned stakeholders in Lagos Deeper Life Bible Church have raised the alarm over what they call a targeted attempt to strip the church of some of its legally acquired property by agents of the Lagos State government while urging Governor Babajide Sanwoolu to investigate the unjust action of the agencies.
The stakeholders in a statement made available to Church Times noted that the church has been experiencing systematic and targeted disruption and harassment by government agencies in the state.
According to them the church has over the past few years suffered greatly in the hands of these agencies
The stakeholders listed some of the property that have so far been destroyed to include Deeper Life Yaba Church which was said to have have been demolished by Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport LAMATA, the Olorunishola Church-demolished by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) and the Lawanson Church-demolished by Surulere LG.
The latest of the affected property is the Deeper Life Lawanson Church which was destroyed recently.
The stakeholders noted that the actions of the government agencies, ‘not only violate the fundamental rights of our faith community but also set a dangerous precedent that undermines religious freedom, property rights, and justice in Lagos State.’
In a later interview with Church Times the Church’s legal representative Mr..Nojeem Tairu confirmed demolition of the property adding that the church has not been paid any compensation.
Tairu said the agencies hide under developmental work to pull down these buildings.
He expressed shock that after the Lawson Church was destroyed the Surulere LG used the place to extend its market giving room to suspect that the action was deliberate victimisation.
Call for Accountability and Justice
The stakeholders in the statement called on Governor Babajde Sanwo-Olu and the relevant authorities to investigate what it describes as a ‘troubling developments and ensure that justice prevails.’
Deeper Life Bible Church according to the stakeholders ‘has always been committed to upholding the laws of the land and maintaining peace and unity among all communities. However, the recent acts of targeted enforcement and undue persecution demand urgent redress and accountability.’
They called on Nigerians, religious organizations, legal advocates, and the international faith community to stand in solidarity with the church as ‘it seeks.fairness, protection, and the right to worship without intimidation.’
While stating that the church will not relent in its commitment to peace, justice, and truth, the stakeholders said, ‘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’
Attempt to get the Lagos government to respond to these allegations was not successful.
A top official in LAMATA who pleaded anonymity said he was aware of the demolition of the Yaba Deeper Life Church.
He said the building was pulled down to accommodate the bus terminal for the.common good.
While claiming that government has paid compensation for some of the affected buildings he could not confirm if Deeper Life Bible Church has been paid .
