Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo has called out Apostle Femi Lazarus for hypocrisy after the pastor criticized gospel musicians for charging performance fees. Dakolo argued that preachers also charge for ministry, highlighting Lazarus’ School of Ministry fees. The debate has sparked widespread reactions on social media.
Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo has accused Apostle Femi Lazarus of hypocrisy following the pastor’s criticism of gospel musicians charging for performances in churches.
The controversy started when Lazarus claimed that an unnamed gospel singer demanded $10,000, a first-class flight, and a 50% non-refundable deposit to minister at an event. The pastor condemned the financial expectations, arguing that gospel artists should serve without monetary demands.
Reacting via Instagram, Dakolo dismissed the claims as misleading, stating, “Nobody in Nigeria has a 40-man crew. Name the artist to justify your claims.” He warned Nigerians against believing everything they see online.
Dakolo then pointed out what he saw as double standards, revealing that Lazarus himself charges $150 per student for his School of Ministry. He shared screenshots of emails confirming the fees and questioned the fairness of the pastor’s argument.
"If gospel musicians shouldn’t charge for ministry, why do preachers charge for teaching the gospel? Do you even have premium and standard plans for God’s house? Let’s not shift the goalpost,” Dakolo wrote.
He further argued that gospel musicians face production, marketing, and promotional costs, yet their work is often undervalued compared to other church expenses.
