The controversy surrounding Nigerian gospel artistes charging fees for performances at churches and Christian events has resurfaced following a statement by Pastor Femi Lazarus.
In a widely shared video, Lazarus, the lead pastor of Light Nation Church, criticized gospel singers who prioritize financial gain over ministry. He expressed concern that many have lost sight of their spiritual calling and emphasized the need for them to rely on God for provision.
“It has become a performance; someone has come here to charge N5 million just to sing,” he remarked in the viral clip.
In response, R&B singer Timi Dakolo condemned religious leaders who, in his view, attempt to guilt-trip gospel artistes. He argued that they deserve a comfortable life and highlighted the benefits they achieve through the fees they charge for their talent.
“You should be paid what you deserve. Studio session, production and promotion cost a lot. You have a family to feed, you have rent to pay, you have more songs to put out. We should stop all these attack on people’s work, As much as it is spiritual, music is art,” he wrote.
Dakolo encouraged Lazarus to work on enhancing his church choir and to feature them in events if he was not in a position to pay for popular gospel singers.
“This gaslighting has to stop. If you can’t pay people, use your choir members and pay them what you would have given the guest artist,” Timi Dakolo said.
See some comments below:
@mucluxury:”Body of Christ took me to court to cut me up oh.”
@dera.cocy:”Learn to monetize your talent n know your worth aswell.”
@procaremultimedia:”Timi the businessman, The Pastor is so factual abeg.”
prettee_dimples:”If they don’t collect money how would they foot their bills?”
@ladeola_:”Nathaniel bassey and some other ministers don’t charge they are after the work of God so most churches and Christian organizations gift them awesomely …but if you are after your own business you can charge.”
@howo_ambassador:”Pastor is your church not business?”
@talktoyossy:”I can’t see any difference. Moreover, let your church choirs minister if you can’t pay them.”
@petebor:”For the sake of the body Christ, we suppose they find them something after performance.”
