Popular Nigerian singer, Timi Dakolo, has criticized the lead pastor of Light Nation Church, Femi Lazarus, for condemning gospel musicians who charge fees to perform in churches. The pastor had alleged that a gospel artist demanded $10,000, along with a 40-man escort, first-class flight, and executive suite accommodation for a church event.

In response, Dakolo challenged him to reveal the singer’s name, arguing that no artist has a 40-member crew. He further called out Pastor Lazarus for charging fees at his school of ministry, accusing him of commercializing the gospel.

“All this was said in love and with respect sir. I’m not a gospel artiste 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 artistes, 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 many as 1000 students. Let’s do the math. You even have a premium and standard for God’s house?

“Are you not also selling the Gift and revelation freely given to you? Again let’s not keep shifting the goal post”.