The Lagos State Government has approved the sealing of a Lekki-based Church, This Present House, for violating building regulations.

The church, christened ‘The Dome’ is on Freedom Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. It belongs to a popular pastor, Dr. Tony Rapu.

According to a statement, the owners of the church contravened the Lagos State Regional and Urban Planning Law 2010 by building without title documents and requisite building permit.

The statement by Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Anifowoshe Abiola, stated that the government would not fold its arms and watch a brazen contravention of the law that could endanger lives and property of residents.

The commissioner explained that the said church has no Planning Permit to embark on such a massive construction without due process.

Besides, he said the church fence was standing in the Right of Way of Freedom Road (currently under construction) and also directly under the high-tension wires.

The statement reads: “While government appreciates citizens’ rights to freedom of worship, the law stipulates a minimum of 15meter setback from the high tension wire to the property line. This church neglected and has refused to comply with the Statutory Notice served, as such the State Government must protect its citizens in order to mitigate against avoidable disasters.”

It reiterated the government’s position against illegal development and warned owners or developers against building without planning approval.

The statement further said that the government has given a 30-day ultimatum to owners/developers of buildings without planning permit to comply with the state planning laws to avoid sanction.

Tony Rapu was pastor to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in the Redeemed Christian Church of God before he (Rapu) established his own church.

The Nation