A Sanctuary Under Siege: The Deeper Life Bible Church and Alleged Demolition of Properties in Lagos State
The Deeper Life Bible Church, a prominent religious institution in Nigeria, has raised serious concerns about the alleged demolition of its properties in various parts of Lagos State. The church alleges that government agencies, including the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), and the Surulere Local Government, have targeted its properties for demolition without due process. These demolitions, affecting branches in Yaba, Olorunishola, and Lawanson, have been described by the church as unjust, unwarranted, and a systematic form of harassment. The church’s legal representatives, Nojim Tairu & Co., have issued a statement condemning these actions, emphasizing the church’s commitment to peaceful co-existence and adherence to the law while asserting their right to seek legal redress.
The church’s statement outlines a concerning pattern of what it perceives as hostility from state agencies. This alleged hostility has manifested in demolition threats, undue restrictions on places of worship and community centers, and an overall climate of harassment. The church maintains that these actions violate the fundamental rights of the faith community, setting a dangerous precedent that undermines religious freedom, property rights, and justice within Lagos State. The church leadership has called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to launch an urgent investigation into these incidents and take appropriate action to address the situation. Beyond the governor, the church has also made a broader appeal to citizens, religious organizations, human rights advocates, and the international community to stand in solidarity with them against what they perceive as religious oppression and property rights violations.
The Deeper Life Bible Church asserts that it is committed to uplifting society through spiritual guidance, humanitarian efforts, and social empowerment. They emphasize their dedication to peace, justice, and truth, declaring their refusal to be intimidated or silenced by unjust actions. The church leadership has expressed its readiness to pursue all available legal avenues to defend its rights and ensure that Deeper Life Bible Church remains a haven of hope and faith for its members. The church’s public statement emphasizes both its commitment to legal and peaceful means of resolving the conflict, while also demonstrating their resolve to protect their religious freedom and property rights.
In response to the allegations, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, has stated that the government bears no animosity towards the Deeper Life Bible Church. He emphasized the close relationship between the government and the church, asserting that the government would not intentionally jeopardize the church’s interests. Omotoso offered explanations for the demolitions, attributing the LAMATA demolition to the need to accommodate rail lines, with the promise of compensation. He characterized the demolition by the Surulere Local Government as a "local matter" currently under investigation. Omotoso reiterated the government’s position that they hold no bias against the Deeper Life Church, highlighting Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership as one of inclusivity and non-discrimination.
The Commissioner for Information further revealed that similar complaints had been received from other individuals associated with the church. He confirmed that these complaints were being taken seriously, with the Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters (Christian) appointed to intervene and facilitate discussions. Omotoso’s statements aim to reassure the church and the public that the government is taking the matter seriously and is committed to a fair and just resolution. He emphasized the ongoing investigation, underscoring the government’s commitment to due process and its intention to understand the full context of the demolitions.
This situation brings to the forefront the delicate balance between urban development, religious freedom, and property rights. While government agencies often undertake projects aimed at improving public infrastructure and services, it is crucial to ensure that such endeavors respect the rights of all stakeholders, including religious organizations. The demolition of religious properties, particularly without due process and adequate compensation, can raise concerns about potential infringement on religious freedom and property rights. The Deeper Life Bible Church’s case underscores the importance of transparent and accountable governance, especially in matters involving religious institutions and their properties. The ongoing investigation will hopefully provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the demolitions and pave the way for a just resolution that respects the rights of all parties involved.
