Pastor Femi Lazarus, the lead minister of Light Nation Church in Abuja, and popular singer Timi Dakolo have resolved their recent disagreement, putting their differences aside in the spirit of unity. The reconciliation comes after a social media dispute regarding fees for ministry services.
The controversy began when Dakolo questioned why Pastor Lazarus charged fees for his School of Ministry while previously criticizing gospel artists who request payment for church performances. The singer argued that musicians, like ministers, have financial responsibilities and should be fairly compensated for their services.
Pastor Lazarus responded by clarifying that his program is a structured school, justifying the associated costs. However, Dakolo stood firm on his stance, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment of gospel musicians who contribute significantly to church services. The exchange quickly gained attention online, sparking discussions about fairness and financial expectations within religious circles.
On Monday evening, Pastor Lazarus took to Instagram to announce that he and Dakolo had reconciled. He expressed appreciation for the singer’s advocacy for fellow gospel artists and admitted that the conversation had given him a broader understanding of the issue.
“My brother Timi Dakolo is a music legend, give him his flowers. What a man! He genuinely carries the burdens of musicians,” Lazarus wrote in his post. “His concerns are real. I love you. Better structures will be built. Pain is real. From pulpits to the pew, the pain is real, but we will be fine.”
The pastor also assured that improvements would be made in the way gospel artists and ministers are treated within the church community. “This generation will not have a carryover of pain. Hosts will do better. Guests will do better. We will have a better nation together,” he added.
