Pastor Chris Oyakhilome accuses music industry of exploiting the church

Renowned Nigerian preacher Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has alleged that the music industry has been taking advantage of the church for decades.

In a widely circulated video, the Christ Embassy leader expressed disappointment over musicians who launched their careers in the church but later switched to secular music, failing to give back to the Christian community.

“For the past 40–50 years, no one has cheated the church like the music industry. Many of them only used the church as a stepping stone,” he stated.

Oyakhilome noted that several mainstream artists began as choir members or worship leaders before pursuing secular success, often leveraging their church experiences for financial gain rather than spiritual growth.

He also cautioned pastors against assigning key ministry roles, particularly in music, to individuals with ulterior motives. According to him, such people often return to the church with negative influences that could undermine its values.

“Satan gives them ideas on how to exploit the opportunities they receive in God’s house for financial benefits,” he warned. “Pastors must be careful not to entrust this vital aspect of ministry to those who merely seek to take advantage of the church.”