The Lagos State Government has arraigned a man, Olusola Shedrach, before a State High Court sitting in Ikeja over the alleged forceful takeover of a church property.
The defendant was brought before Justice Hakeem Oshodi on a three-count charge bordering on forceful seizure, malicious damage, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.
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According to the prosecution, the property belongs to Harvesters Church, located along the Gbagada Oworonshoki Expressway.
The state prosecutor told the court that the defendant unlawfully assumed control of the premises and damaged items within the facility.
While the exact motive behind the alleged takeover was not disclosed in court, the prosecution maintained that the defendant acted without lawful authority and in a manner capable of disrupting public peace.
The prosecution further stated that the alleged actions violate the Lagos State Properties Protection Law, 2016, as well as relevant provisions of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to all the charges.
Following his plea, defence counsel requested time to file and argue a bail application, a request that was not opposed by the prosecution.
Justice Oshodi subsequently adjourned the case to April 22, 2026, for the hearing of the bail application, while June 17, 2026, was fixed for the commencement of trial.
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