Pastor Femi Lazarus vs Timi Dakolo: Ali Baba Reacts to Gospel Singers' Fee,

The feud between Pastor Femi Lazarus and Timi Dakolo has gained traction, and Nigerian comedian Ali Baba has joined the fray. 

Pastor Lazarus, leader of Light Nation Church, recently kicked off the debate by condemning gospel singers who demand payment for church performances. 

In a widely circulated video, he recounted an instance where a singer requested N5 million. He argued that genuine ministers should rely on divine provision rather turning worship into a business.

However, Timi Dakolo, a celebrated Nigerian artist, didn’t hold back in his response. He argued that gospel music, while a calling, is also a profession requiring significant investment. He noted that studio sessions, production costs, and promotion aren’t cheap. 

Dakolo stressed that these artists have responsibilities like feeding their families and urged pastors to stop guilt-tripping them and either pay for their services or stick to church choirs. 

Joining the conversation, Ali Baba brought a raw, relatable twist to the saga with his Instagram post on March 21, 2025. He shared three real-life stories of church musicians to illustrate their struggles. Gbenga, a keyboardist, sought accommodation help from his church after shuttling between the mainland and Victoria Island for services, only to find his belongings dumped outside after months of waiting. Eze, a skilled bassist, endured suspensions for gigging with a "secular" jazz band, eventually quitting the church after his deaconess aunt warned of a final ban. Sammie’s tale ends with his death, though details are scarce, leaving a sombre note.