Deeper Life Bible Church is demanding justice following the demolition of its branch at 36 Aina Street, Lawanson, by Surulere Local Government in Lagos. The demolition, which was carried out despite an existing court order, has drawn criticism from the church and members of the Christian community.
At a reconciliation meeting held at the Surulere Local Government Secretariat, church leaders, local government officials, police representatives, and lawyers gathered to discuss the matter and seek a peaceful resolution. The building, used by the church for over 18 years without dispute, was demolished in collaboration with the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA). Shortly after, construction of market stalls began on the same land.
Pastor Alfred Ogene, representing Deeper Life, said the council admitted to demolishing the church but failed to follow due process. He stressed that legal procedures were ignored and noted that the council had promised to issue a written response or formal proposal to address the situation.
Taiwo Kupolati, SAN, the church’s legal adviser, described the meeting as constructive but insisted that the law must be respected. He said the local government acted in defiance of a court injunction and that the speed of the new market project raised concerns about a planned takeover. Kupolati added that the chairman of the council agreed to consult higher authorities and present solutions that could lead to a fair outcome.
He also recalled that the church had peacefully occupied the land for nearly two decades without trouble from previous administrations.
Christian Nwogu, who represented the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), backed the church’s claims and confirmed that the court had recognized Deeper Life as the rightful owner of the land.
