The Deeper Life Bible Church has demanded a “commensurate compensation” from Sanwo-Olu’s government after it demolished its church building on 36 Aina St., Lawanson, Surulere, Lagos State.

In an interview with reporters on Friday, the spokesperson for the church, Mr Taiwo Kupolati, made this known as the church further seeks protection of its members while the government carries out lawful activities in the land.

According to Kupolati, the church building was pulled down on May 27 by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).

The institution had reported the case to the acting inspector-general of police in charge of Zone Two of the Nigeria Police Force, seeking protection of its members from harassment or intimidation while worshipping on the land pending resolution of the case.

He stated that the members of the church are questioning the legality of the action.

He said; “We were told that LASBCA acted on its own. but we know the local government had earlier indicated interest in the land.”

While acknowledging that the church received ₦10 million compensation earlier given to it by the Surulere Local Government which it rejected, Kupolati south for “proper valuation of the property”.

He added; “Alternatively, the church demands that it should be relocated to another land within the vicinity to enable its members to continue their worship.”

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Mr Gbenga Omotoso denied the involvement of the state government in the demolition of the property while he clarified that the Sanwo-Olu led government of Lagos state has no issues with the church.

He clarified that the demolition was orchestrated by the local government.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has always promoted fairness. We hold Deeper Life Church in high regard. The state government did not order the demolition.

“We have begun talks with representatives of the church. The governor’s Special Adviser on Religious Matters (Christian) is engaging with them,” the commissioner said.