In a stunning revelation, the founder of Christ Embassy, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, has shed light on why some of Nigeria’s biggest gospel artists, including Sinach, Frank Edwards, Joe Praize, and Eben, parted ways with the church.
For years, rumors and speculation swirled around the sudden exits of these celebrated musicians, with many pointing to alleged restrictions placed on them regarding ministering outside the church. However, Oyakhilome has now broken his silence, offering a deeper perspective on the matter.
Speaking in a recently surfaced video, Oyakhilome strongly criticized the direction gospel music had taken within his church, accusing some artists of prioritizing personal fame and financial gains over spiritual service.
Church or Party Venue? Pastor Chris’ Displeasure
According to Oyakhilome, one of his major grievances was that the church had been turned into a place of entertainment rather than a house of prayer and spiritual dedication. He expressed disappointment in how certain gospel musicians handled their roles within Christ Embassy.
“The church was turned into a party place, not a place of prayer where God’s word was truly celebrated. They were not soul winners; they led praise in church, and when it was time for prayers, they were gone,” Oyakhilome stated.
His comments reflect a deeper frustration that extends beyond music, touching on the spiritual discipline of these musicians. The televangelist noted that while he had initially celebrated their contributions to gospel music, he later realized that a change was needed, one that these artists were unwilling to embrace.
Fame and Fortune Over Faith?
The Christ Embassy leader also accused some of the departed musicians of becoming too consumed by their rising popularity and financial success, alleging that monetary gains had distracted them from their true calling.
“They had become too popular, and because they were making even little money… do they know what big money is? The little money they were making was too attractive to them, so they didn’t want to follow me. So they made a detour. I hope they all repent. They are not worship leaders,” he declared.
Oyakhilome’s remarks suggest that financial independence and the ability to perform outside Christ Embassy may have been key factors in their departure. Over the years, some of these artists have built global brands, collaborating with international gospel musicians, and performing at major Christian events worldwide.
Sinach’s Exit and Global Success
Sinach, arguably the most famous among the departed artists, has achieved international recognition for her powerful gospel hits. Her song Way Maker became a global anthem, covered by top gospel musicians worldwide, including Michael W. Smith and Leeland. She has since ministered in churches across the United States, United Kingdom, and other parts of the world.
Reports suggest that Sinach’s growing international engagements made her presence in Christ Embassy scarce, which allegedly displeased Oyakhilome. According to sources, she was asked to return and actively participate in the church’s music ministry but declined, leading to her quiet exit.
Frank Edwards and the Commercialization of Gospel Music
Another prominent departure was Frank Edwards, who has built a thriving gospel music career with a successful record label, Rocktown Records.
Oyakhilome’s criticism of musicians charging fees for performances and embracing secular influences appears to be directed at Edwards and others who have established business models around their music.
In previous interviews, Edwards has defended his approach, emphasizing that gospel music is a ministry but also a profession that requires investment and sustainability. “I am first a minister of the gospel, but I am also a businessman. If secular artists can be millionaires from music, why shouldn’t gospel musicians thrive financially too?” he once stated.
Joe Praize and Eben: Following a Similar Path
Joe Praize and Eben, both well-known worship leaders who spent years at Christ Embassy, have also moved on to independent music ministries. While neither has openly addressed their departure, they have continued to release music and hold concerts outside the Christ Embassy structure.
Both artists have also embraced digital platforms and streaming services, capitalizing on the evolving gospel music industry. Their continued success outside Christ Embassy lends credence to Oyakhilome’s remarks about gospel artists venturing beyond the church’s boundaries.
The Shift in Christ Embassy’s Music Ministry
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome’s recent comments reflect a broader shift in the church’s stance on gospel music. In his remarks, he emphasized a return to prayer-driven worship, distancing Christ Embassy from what he described as a trend of gospel music turning into entertainment.
“I did at the beginning and celebrated them, but when I changed, they refused to change with me, so I had to let them go. God was getting my attention, telling me this was not the way. I told them the Lord wanted us to do the right thing,” Oyakhilome explained.
His statement suggests that the split was not just about music but about a deeper theological and doctrinal shift within Christ Embassy. This shift may explain why more structured and church-controlled music groups, such as the Loveworld Singers, have taken center stage in recent years.
Gospel Industry Reactions and Implications
Oyakhilome’s comments have sparked debates within the Nigerian gospel music industry, with some supporting his stance on spiritual discipline and others criticizing what they see as an attempt to control artists.
A gospel music producer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, argued that the commercialization of gospel music is not inherently wrong. “A laborer is worthy of his wages. These musicians have families, responsibilities, and ministries to fund. Expecting them to rely solely on church offerings is not sustainable,” he said.
On the other hand, some church leaders have echoed Oyakhilome’s sentiments, insisting that gospel music should remain purely a tool for evangelism, not personal gain.
What Lies Ahead?
While Sinach, Frank Edwards, Joe Praize, and Eben have all moved on from Christ Embassy, their careers continue to flourish. Whether or not they respond directly to Oyakhilome’s remarks remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, Christ Embassy’s shift in musical direction is evident, with a renewed focus on spiritual worship and less emphasis on celebrity-driven gospel music.
One thing is certain: the Nigerian gospel music industry will continue evolving, with or without Christ Embassy’s top stars. Whether Oyakhilome’s words will influence how gospel musicians balance ministry and commerce remains a topic of ongoing discussion.
As the debate rages on, Nigerian Christians and gospel music lovers will be watching closely to see how both sides navigate the intersection of faith, music, and financial sustainability in the years to come.
