The already heated online exchange between singer Timi Dakolo and Pastor Femi Lazarus has taken a new turn, with Dakolo issuing further accusations against the Light Nation Church founder.
Following their initial public disagreement regarding the ethics of charging fees for gospel artistes performing at church events.
Pastor Femi Lazarus, in a viral video, expressed his belief that gospel musicians should trust God for provision, rather than charging fees for their ministry.
He argued that gospel artistes are ministers of the gospel, not just performers.
Contradicting Pastor Lazarus’s perspective, Timi Dakolo asserted that some pastors routinely pressure gospel artists to perform for free, which he considers to be an unfair exploitation.
Dakolo defended the rights of these performers to seek compensation, listing the various expenses they incur, such as studio fees, travel costs, and other professional obligations, that make earning a living necessary.
Dakolo offered a constructive suggestion that pastors cultivate their own church choirs, instead of expecting free performances from professional gospel artists.
He further explained that his response was motivated by respect and love, and that, despite his Christian upbringing, he does not identify as a gospel singer.
Expanding his accusations, the R&B singer alleged that Pastor Femi Lazarus requires students to pay a $150 fee to attend his ministry school.
Where they receive instruction in Christianity, with an estimated 1,000 students enrolled.
Supporting his claim, Dakolo shared a screenshot allegedly revealing the school’s fee structure and criticized the pastor for profiting from what he described as a freely given gift and revelation.
“All this was said in love and with respect sir. I am not a gospel artist but a Christian raised in church. Let’s not shift the goal post.
“By your definition, if anyone charges to minister, they are not Gospel artists, they are performers.
“And by that definition, if any preacher charges to teach and minister, they are merchants of hope and motivational speakers and performers too.
“Sir, you are charging as low as 150 dollars per person for your school of ministry.
“Teaching and preaching Jesus. Probably having as much as 1000 students. Let’s do the maths. You even have premium and standard for God’s house?
“Are you not selling the gift and revelation freely given to you? Again, let’s not keep shifting the goal post.”