The debate over Nigerian gospel artistes charging fees for performances at churches and Christian events has reignited after a statement by Pastor Femi Lazarus.
In a viral video, the Light Nation Church leader criticized gospel singers who prioritize financial gain over ministry.
He expressed concern that many have strayed from their spiritual calling, urging them to trust God for provision rather than focusing on monetary rewards for their performances.
“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 criticized religious leaders who he believes guilt-trip gospel artistes. He defended their right to earn a living, emphasizing that their fees enable them to enjoy a comfortable life.
“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 advised Lazarus to improve his church choir and use them for events if he couldn’t afford 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 post below: