A heated debate has erupted between Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo and Pastor Femi Lazarus over the financial expectations of gospel singers and ministers.
The dispute began after Pastor Lazarus, the founder of Light Nation Church, criticized gospel artists for charging high fees to perform at church events, arguing that their focus should be on ministry rather than money.
During a recent sermon, Lazarus projected an alleged invoice from a gospel singer demanding a $10,000 honorarium, a 50% non-refundable deposit, first-class flight tickets, and premium accommodation. He claimed such financial demands contradict the essence of gospel ministry.
“The mistake on that invoice is the word ‘honorarium’ used; just tell them the price. When they pay you this amount of money, you will shout and roll on the floor, but those who know God know He’s not there,” he stated.
He further alleged that some gospel singers avoid charging prominent pastors in exchange for endorsements while imposing high fees on smaller ministries.
In response, Timi Dakolo fired back at clerics for what he described as gaslighting gospel artists. He defended their right to earn a living from their craft and advised pastors to rely on their church choir if they cannot afford professional gospel singers.
Timi Dakolo then accused Pastor Femi Lazarus of hypocrisy, claiming that the pastor charges fees for his ministry school, which offers teachings on Jesus Christ. He shared a screenshot of an alleged email showing that the school charges at least $150 per student, with over 1,000 students potentially enrolled.
“Sir, you are charging as low as $150 per person for your school of ministry, teaching and preaching Jesus. Probably having as much as 1,000 students. Let’s do the math. You even have premium and standard for God’s house? Are you not selling the gift and revelation freely given to you?” Dakolo questioned.
His remarks have sparked mixed reactions, with some supporting the pastor’s stance and others arguing that gospel singers, like professionals in other fields, deserve fair compensation for their work.
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