News Update
Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo has publicly confronted Pastor Femi Lazarus of Light Nation Church, Abuja, over comments on gospel musicians charging for performances.
Pastor Lazarus, in a sermon that went viral on social media, criticised gospel artistes who request high fees to minister in churches.
He cited an unnamed singer who allegedly charged $10,000, demanded a 40-person escort, first-class flights, and executive accommodation.
The pastor condemned these charges, calling them excessive.
“Gospel music is meant to edify and uplift, not to be commercialised. The fees some artistes demand today are unjustifiable,” he said.
Responding on Instagram, Dakolo challenged the pastor to name the artiste in question.
“No singer has 40 crew members. If you are going to make claims, back them up with facts,” Dakolo stated.
He further accused Pastor Lazarus of hypocrisy, alleging that the pastor himself charges for his school of ministry.
“You charge as low as $150 per person to teach about Jesus. If we follow your logic, then you are selling the gospel too,” Dakolo argued.
The singer also pointed out that the pastor had different pricing tiers for his teachings.
“You even have premium and standard packages for God’s house. How is that different from gospel artistes charging to perform?” he questioned.
Dakolo, known for his inspirational music, clarified that he is not a gospel artiste but a Christian who was raised in the church.
“All this was said in love and respect, sir. Let’s not shift the goalpost when it suits us,” he added.
He suggested that if preachers charge to teach, then gospel musicians should not be condemned for charging to sing.
“By your definition, if they charge, they are not ministers but performers. Then, by that same definition, you are a motivational speaker and a merchant of hope,” he remarked.
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The online exchange has sparked widespread debate, with many Nigerians sharing their opinions on whether gospel artistes should be paid for ministering.
Some have defended Pastor Lazarus, arguing that spiritual teaching and musical performances serve different purposes.
Others support Dakolo, insisting that both preaching and gospel music involve effort and resources.
The controversy highlights the ongoing discussion about commercialisation in the Nigerian gospel music industry.
Neither Pastor Lazarus nor representatives of Light Nation Church have officially responded to Dakolo’s accusations.
