The General Overseer of Christ Embassy, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, has voiced strong concerns about musicians, particularly those who began their careers in church but later transitioned to secular music.
During an audio broadcast played on the Daybreak Hitz Show on March 25, 2025, Pastor Chris addressed what he sees as a troubling pattern: talented singers who start in the church, gain popularity, and then leave to pursue mainstream music.
According to him, this trend amounts to “cheating the church,” as these individuals use the church as a stepping stone to success.
“No one has cheated the church like the music industry. Many of the world’s popular artists started in the church—singing in the choir, leading worship—but eventually turned to secular music. The only thing they did was use the church to gain popularity or find financial opportunities,” he stated.
He further expressed that such musicians often seek ways to benefit from the church while ultimately moving away from its principles.
“They always find ways to leverage their church background for financial gain. The enemy influences their minds, giving them ideas on how to use the church to their advantage,” he added.
Pastor Chris then urged church leaders to reconsider offering platforms to young, talented singers to prevent them from following this path.
“I have advised against giving them such opportunities unless they are fully committed. If not, they may stray and face spiritual consequences. I am trying to save them because many secular lyrics are no different from what sinners write,” he concluded.
His remarks have sparked discussions on whether churches should continue nurturing musical talents or adopt stricter measures to ensure that artists remain dedicated to their faith.
