Timi Dakolo Claps Back at Pastor Femi Lazarus Over Gospel Artistes Charging for Ministration

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter Timi Dakolo has responded to Pastor Lazarus Femi of Light Nation Church after the cleric criticized gospel artistes for charging money to minister in churches.

In a viral video, Pastor Lazarus claimed that many gospel singers have turned ministration into mere performances and warned that they would soon fade away. He also argued that those concerned about paying their crew members lack spiritual understanding, insisting that God would provide for their needs.

Popular Nigerian singer/songwriter, Timi Dakolo has taken a swipe at the lead pastor of Light Nation Church, Pastor Lazarus Femi, after he slammed gospel artistes who charge money to minister in Church.

Lazarus, in a video making the rounds online, said many gospel singers have turned ministration into performance and will soon fade away.

According to the cleric, the question of how singers will pay their crew members is because they lack the understanding of the scripture that God will supply their needs and are far from God’s presence.

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Timi Dakolo Fires Back

Reacting to the video in the comment section of an Instagram blog, Timi Dakolo didn’t hold back. He stated that gospel artistes are not beggars and deserve fair compensation for their work.

“My dear Christians, a quote or conversation can sound intelligent and deep yet be untrue. Just like everyone else, gospel ministers deserve the very best life has to offer. They should be paid what they deserve,” Dakolo wrote.

He highlighted the high costs involved in music production, studio sessions, promotions, and taking care of family responsibilities. He also called out those who refuse to pay gospel artistes, suggesting they should instead develop and fairly compensate their church musicians.

“If you can’t pay people, then use your church choir and pay them what you would have given the guest artiste,” he added. “This gaslighting has to stop. Gospel ministers want good things too. They are not beggars. The best architects are hired to build churches, and large sums are spent on promoting big programs, so why should musicians be treated differently?”

Dakolo also pointed out that ministry and music go hand in hand, emphasizing that it takes years of dedication to become an elite musician.

“Develop your musicians and pay them well,” he concluded. “None of these people saying this will fly economy or travel alone to save money when invited to preach. Let’s stop belittling people’s work. All this was said in love.”