The Lagos State Government has carried out a series of demolition exercises targeting buildings erected beneath or too close to high-tension power lines, resulting in the destruction of several Celestial Church of Christ parishes across the state. The move, which government officials describe as a necessary safety enforcement, has sparked emotional reactions, financial concerns, and renewed debate about compliance with urban planning regulations.
The enforcement, led by officials of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) and the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, is part of a broader campaign to clear what authorities term “danger zones” within the state particularly structures under 330KVA and 132KVA transmission lines.
According to the Lagos State Government, structures under high-tension lines pose grave risks to human life. Officials noted that electrocution, electrical arcing, fire outbreaks, and structural hazards increase significantly when buildings are located directly beneath or within restricted setbacks of overhead transmission cables.
The Government of Lagos State also cited multiple planning laws and environmental regulations that prohibit developers religious or otherwise, from putting up permanent structures in government-designated hazard corridors.
IMPACT ON CELESTIAL CHURCH OF CHRIST PARISHES
The demolitions affected several CCC parishes in Lagos State believed to have grown over the years from temporary structures into permanent worship centres. Many of the parishes had been in their communities for years, serving as spiritual hubs, charity centres, and community anchors.
At one demolished site, members—some in white garments—were seen weeping and attempting to salvage hymn books, church instruments, and sacred items from the rubble.
One parish member lamented: “This is our spiritual home. We never imagined the church would be pulled down like this. Our children grew up here. We feel homeless today.”
The demolition of CCC parishes under high-tension power lines in Lagos is a deeply emotional and spiritually challenging development. Yet, it highlights the ongoing tension between urban development, safety regulations, and the expansion of religious activities in Nigeria’s most densely populated city.
While the pain of displacement is real, the tragedy reminds the church of the importance of wisdom, compliance, and the protection of human lives. As affected parishes regroup and rebuild, many members pray that the next chapter will be marked by better planning, stronger unity, and renewed faith.
