Lagos Govt Orders Demolition of RCCG Parish in Somolu After Nearby Building Collapse

The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has ordered the demolition of a Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) parish in the Somolu area after a nearby building under construction collapsed, causing severe structural damage to the church.

The incident occurred on Monday while a service was ongoing at the church. Although the collapse caused significant damage, no casualties were reported.

By Tuesday, LASBCA officials had issued a final removal notice, declaring the church building structurally unsafe. A notice posted on the premises read: “This building has been declared distressed and must be removed within seven days.”

Residents say the construction of the collapsed building had progressed at an unusually fast pace.

“Right after demolishing the old structure, the new one was already rising within a few days,” said Pastor Daniel Ojo of the affected RCCG parish. “Now, we’re left without a place of worship.”

Pastor Ojo expressed concern about relocating, especially in a densely populated industrial area. “Moving far away could scatter our members. We’re more than a church, we’re a family,” he said.

Eyewitnesses reported that construction workers narrowly escaped as the structure gave way.

“They were on the top floor when it collapsed. They jumped and ran. It’s a miracle no one died,” a nearby trader said.

LASBCA representative Adekomi Adeniyi confirmed that an inspection was carried out, and the agency determined the church must be demolished to prevent further risk.

The Somolu incident adds to growing concerns about unregulated and hastily executed construction projects across Lagos. Urban planning experts continue to warn about the dangers these projects pose, especially in densely populated areas.

As of the time of this report, the Lagos State Government has not announced any penalties for the developers responsible for the collapsed building.