Renowned Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo has publicly criticized Apostle Femi Lazarus, Lead Pastor of Light Nation Church, for condemning gospel artists who charge fees for performing at church events while simultaneously requiring payments for his School of Ministry.
The Pastor’s Stance on Gospel Artists’ Fees
Apostle Lazarus has been vocal about his belief that gospel musicians should not commercialize worship. He argues that charging large sums for church performances contradicts the essence of ministry and that artists should trust in God’s provision rather than financial negotiations.
During a recent sermon, the pastor even shared an alleged invoice from a gospel artist requesting:
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A $10,000 honorarium
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A 50% non-refundable deposit
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A first-class flight
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Premium accommodation
Condemning these demands, Lazarus stated:
“The mistake on that invoice is the word ‘honorarium’ used; just tell them the price. Those who know God, know He’s not with ministers like this.”
Dakolo’s Response: “This Gaslighting Must Stop”
Reacting to these remarks, Timi Dakolo took to Instagram on Monday, March 24, calling out the pastor’s stance as hypocritical. He accused Lazarus of downplaying the hard work, financial commitment, and running costs associated with gospel music.
“This gaslighting has to stop! Gospel ministers want good things too; they are not beggars. No one should diminish another person’s ministry. Ministry needs music, and music needs ministry,” Dakolo wrote.
Calling Out the Hypocrisy
Dakolo further pointed out that Apostle Lazarus charges $150 per student for his School of Ministry, which reportedly has as many as 1,000 students. He questioned why the pastor sees no issue in charging for ministry education but criticizes gospel artists for requesting payment for their craft.
“Sir, you are charging as low as $150 per person to teach and preach Jesus. You even have premium and standard for God’s house? Are you not selling the gift and revelation freely given to you?” Dakolo asked.
He also emphasized the significant costs involved in music production, including studio time, marketing, and promotions, arguing that gospel musicians deserve fair compensation for their work.
“Such hypocrisy. The School of Ministry has expenses, but music creation doesn’t? Keep shifting the goalpost, guys,” he added.
This exchange has sparked debate among religious and entertainment circles, with some supporting Lazarus’ call for gospel artists to prioritize ministry over money, while others agree with Dakolo that musicians, like pastors, have financial responsibilities and deserve compensation for their work.
What are your thoughts? Should gospel artists charge for their performances, or should their ministry be entirely free?
