Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court in Lagos has issued a warrant for the arrest of Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, manager of renowned gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. The warrant was granted on Thursday following a motion ex parte filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

During the hearing, Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari, representing the EFCC, informed the court of the application brought under Sections 35(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution and Sections 35 to 39 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015. She argued that the warrant was necessary to compel Onyedikachukwu’s appearance in court to address criminal allegations against him.

The EFCC disclosed that the case stemmed from a petition submitted by Mercy Chinwo. According to an affidavit filed by EFCC investigator Michael Idoko, Chinwo accused her manager of receiving royalties from her digital platforms and events without proper disclosure. She further alleged that Onyedikachukwu diverted approximately $345,000 without remitting her share.

Efforts to apprehend Onyedikachukwu had so far been unsuccessful, prompting the EFCC to seek the court’s intervention. Buhari added that if the manager could not be apprehended, the EFCC would issue a public summons declaring him wanted.

After considering the submissions, the court approved the EFCC’s request and scheduled January 24, 2025, for Onyedikachukwu’s arraignment. The case has drawn attention as it involves significant financial allegations within the gospel music industry.

©Advocatengr