Ali Baba Speaks On Gospel Singers Charging Exorbitant Fees

Posted by Thandiubani on Fri 21st Mar, 2025 - tori.ng

Pastor Lazarus, the leader of Light Nation Church, sparked controversy when he criticized gospel artists who charge fees for performing in churches.

Comedian Ali Baba has reacted to the contentious issue of gospel singers and ministers charging exorbitant fees.

Recall that Pastor Femi Lazarus had kicked against the practice with singer Timi Dakolo disagreeing with him.

Pastor Lazarus, the leader of Light Nation Church had sparked controversy when he criticized gospel artists who charge fees for performing in churches.

He recounted how a singer requested ₦5 million for a performance.

According to him, true ministers should trust in divine provision rather than commercializing worship.

Dakolo disagreed with him. He noted that recording, production, and promotions are costly, as such gospel singers should charge money.

Reacting to the debate, Comedian Ali Baba shared three real-life stories highlighting the struggles of church musicians.

He wrote:

“In the end, the ones that stayed in the local parishes, see the ones that launched out on their own apursued the gospel ministration, became popular, accepted, paid, & invited, by the same parish that refused to even give them tokens of particles from tithes, to ease, their tight corner”

See the post here:

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A post shared by Ali Baba (@alibabagcfr)

@uchennaji;”If only I can share my story as to why I walked out almost 2decades ago after serving at a prominent-elite RCCG church in VI. Maybe someday …🚶🏾🚶🏾🚶🏾”

@holy_ake;”Where is the lie? You invite foreigners and pay them, why not show love to those that are dedicated in your church doing the work”

@minjoechristian;”I went through this exact experience.”

@ola_bass;”Thissss!!!!!! If the so called body of Christ/Pastors dey do Artistes/Musicians/Choir well, they wouldn’t have to put a price tag on their talents. Emphasis: Treat your Musicians well 🙏🙏🙏🙏”

@loladefacetalk;”I saw something similar first hand, I just told myself, my dear get up and go and make some money. No one will rate you if you don’t polish yourself and add some value. I mean premium value.”