By Onilede Titi Faith
The Deeper Life Bible Church in Surulere, Lagos, has rejected a ₦10 million compensation offer from the Surulere Local Government following the demolition of its building by the Lagos State Building Control Agency in May 2025.
Located at 36 Aina Street, Lawanson, the church said the offer does not reflect the true value of the demolished property and is now demanding a new plot of land within the same community to ensure continuity of worship for its members.
A church spokesperson, speaking on Friday, July 11, explained that the church, which had occupied the site for over 18 years, is also seeking guarantees from security agencies to protect its members during the dispute and eventual relocation.
The Surulere Local Government has defended the demolition, citing it as part of an ongoing urban renewal drive. However, Lagos State authorities clarified that the state government was not directly responsible for the action.
Efforts are reportedly ongoing to resolve the matter, with a governor’s adviser currently mediating discussions between the church and local officials.
Church representatives insist the demolition was unlawful and violated an existing court injunction.
The lack of alternative land allocation has sparked concern among community advocates who are calling for a resolution that honours both legal rights and the church’s long-standing presence in the area.
