Evangelist TB Joshua could be sued after 115 people died in church collapse
Relatives of two of the victims who died when a church hostel collapsed in Lagos are considering legal action against the Nigerian megachurch evangelist TB Joshua.
The two South Africans both lost sisters and one has appealed an open letter published in South Africa's Star newspaper for more relatives to come forward to join the action.
At least 115 people, including 84 South Africans, died when the multi-storey building fell down in mid-September.
Questions have been raised over whether the foundations could take the weight of extra floors that were being added to the guest house, used to accommodate visitors to Joshua's Synagogue Church Of All Nations.
Al Jazeera reported that Joshua, known as "The Prophet", has an almost fanatical following among Nigerians and others who believe he has the power of healings and prophecies. His megachurch attracts thousands of worshippers each week.
Thanduxolo Doro, whose sister Vathiswa Madikiza died in the collapse, told the BBC: "It is not that the building collapsed, rather what was done after the collapse - we didn't get any news from the church. When I contacted them they wouldn't tell me anything. We saw reports that emergency workers were denied access initially, access that could have saved lives. The actions of the church after the incident are very telling.
"I need to do this for [my sister]. Even if I stand alone, I am determined to see that something is done.
"I understand that some families are afraid to take on someone who purports to be God's messenger and I don't blame them but I will do this."
About 25 survivors are still receiving medical care after returning to South Africa. Some are critical, have had limbs amputated and suffered other complications.
Joshua announced last Sunday that he would visit South Africa every month from now on to honour the "martyrs of faith". He also described some media reports of the disaster as "persecution" and "propaganda".Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan visited the site last Saturday and promised there would be an investigation.
