Deeper Life Church raises alarm over demolition of its branch, insists it possesses legal documents of ownership
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
A branch of Deeper Life Bible Church at 36 Aina Street, Lawanson in Surulere, Lagos, has alerted the public over unlawful demolition of its property by the Surulere Council, urging Christians, legal professionals, and civil society groups to intervene and stop the injustice.
Israel Adeagbo, the Pastor of the branch, described the demolition as a gross violation of the rule of law and a disregard for a standing court injunction.
“This is not just about a church. It’s about justice, the rule of law, and respect for our Constitution,” he said.
He recounted that the church has been operating peacefully at the location since 2007, serving the spiritual and social needs of the community, but trouble began in January 2024 when the council announced its plan to demolish the church premises to pave the way for a shopping complex.
Adeagbo disclosed that despite a court injunction under Suit No YSD/4860LM/24, the council sent in bulldozers and thugs on May 26 to pull down the church fence – a day before a scheduled meeting.
“The second and more damaging demolition occurred on May 27, in total defiance of the court’s restraining order. Our church building was destroyed,” he lamented.
He said a new court order issued on May 27 reaffirmed the church’s legal ownership of the land and ordered its restoration but the council refused to comply and continues to occupy the site by force.
“We call on all religious bodies, regardless of faith, to see this as a sacrilege and an assault on the sacred. We appeal to every Nigerian of conscience, especially those in the legal field and civil society – to help rescue us from this blatant injustice.”
Adeagbo affirmed that the church possesses valid documents proving legal ownership of the property and its demolition is entirely unwarranted.
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