Femi Lazarus Justifies $150 Ministry School Fee After Timi Dakolo’s Remarks
Popular cleric Femi Lazarus has addressed criticism surrounding the $150 fee charged for his school of ministry, following backlash from gospel singer Timi Dakolo. The controversy began when Lazarus publicly spoke against gospel artists demanding high performance fees, arguing that ministry should not be treated as a commercial venture. His statement sparked a strong reaction from Dakolo, who pointed out what he saw as a contradiction in Lazarus’ stance.
Dakolo questioned why Lazarus would criticize gospel singers for charging fees while he himself required payment for ministerial training. This ignited a heated discussion on social media, with many debating whether ministry services should be monetized. Some argued that gospel music, like any other profession, requires effort and resources, justifying performance fees. Others supported Lazarus’ viewpoint, insisting that ministry should be purely service-driven and not financially motivated.
A social media user, identified as Deeemaths, directly asked Lazarus to explain the necessity of the $150 fee for his school of ministry. “But you charge $150 for your school of ministry? Please, can you shed more light on it, sir? I thought it’s ministry?” the user wrote. In response, Lazarus simply stated, “Yes o, it is a school.” His brief but pointed reply suggested that the structured education and training offered through the program warranted the fee, just like any other form of specialized learning.
Despite his response, the debate has continued, with some questioning whether ministry training should be accessible to all, regardless of financial status. Others believe structured ministerial education, like any professional development course, requires funding to maintain quality instruction and resources.
This controversy highlights the ongoing conversation within religious and gospel communities about the balance between faith-based services and financial compensation. It also raises broader questions about whether those involved in ministry—whether pastors, gospel artists, or spiritual mentors—should receive payment for their work or if their services should be offered freely.
