Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has accused the music industry of consistently exploiting the church.

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has accused the music industry of consistently exploiting the church. In a video of his sermon, he asserted that the church nurtures talented singers who initially use the religious setting to develop their skills and gain opportunities, only to leave and pursue success in secular music.

“For probably the last 50 years, no one has taken advantage of the church like the music industry. Most of them have simply used the church,” Pastor Chris said.

He pointed out that many secular musicians began in the church, singing in the choir before departing to join the mainstream music industry, where they are exposed to what he describes as satanic influences. He believes these individuals often exploit the church for financial gain, using its opportunities for personal profit, and once they venture out, they return with “evil spirits,” attempting to lure others away.

Pastor Chris urged churches to prevent talented musicians from exploiting the church and suggested they contribute to other areas of ministry to demonstrate their commitment.

“I advise pastors not to entrust this key area of the ministry to those whose only goal is to take advantage of the church. Let them be involved in cell ministries or other areas,” he said. Pastor Chris’ Christ Embassy church has been instrumental in the success of several gospel artists, including Sinach, one of Africa’s most respected gospel musicians.

These remarks from Pastor Chris come amid ongoing discussions about the relationship between gospel artists and the church. Recently, Pastor Femi Lazarus, another prominent Christian leader, criticized gospel artists who charge fees to perform in churches.