In a widely circulated video, Lazarus, the lead pastor of Light Nation Church, criticized gospel singers who, in his view, prioritize financial gain over their ministry. “It has become a performance; someone has come here to charge N5 million just to sing,” he remarked in the viral clip. He expressed concern that many have lost sight of their spiritual calling and stressed the importance of relying on God for provision.
In response, R&B singer Timi Dakolo voiced his condemnation of religious leaders who, according to him, try to guilt-trip gospel artists. “You should be paid what you deserve. Studio sessions, production, and promotion are expensive. You have a family to feed, rent to pay, and more songs to release. We should stop attacking people’s work. As much as it is spiritual, music is art,” he wrote.
He further argued that gospel artists are entitled to a comfortable life and emphasized the value of the fees they charge for their talent.