A Federal High Court in Lagos, presided over by Justice Alexander Owoeye, has issued a warrant of arrest for EFCC to detain Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the manager of renowned gospel artist Mercy Chinwo.
This decision followed an ex-parte motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
When the case was called on Thursday, EFCC counsel Bilikisu Buhari informed the court of the application brought under the provisions of Section 35(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution, alongside Sections 35 to 39 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.
EFCC
EFCC investigators
The application sought the issuance of an arrest warrant to compel Onyedikachukwu’s court appearance.
Mrs. Buhari explained that the manager is accused of criminal offenses, including the misappropriation of funds belonging to Mercy Chinwo. “If we cannot apprehend the manager, we will proceed with a public summons to declare him wanted,” she added.
The court granted the application and adjourned the case until January 24 for the manager’s arraignment.
Gospel singer Mercy Chinwo
In a sworn affidavit supporting the application, EFCC investigator Michael Idoko disclosed that the commission received a formal complaint from Mercy Chinwo. The gospel singer alleged that her manager had been receiving royalties from her digital platforms and events without transparency or disclosure.
The affidavit further revealed that Onyedikachukwu allegedly diverted approximately $345,000 without remitting Chinwo’s share. Despite multiple attempts, the EFCC reported being unable to locate and arrest the manager, prompting the need for the arrest warrant.
“Efforts to recover the misappropriated funds and bring the manager to justice are ongoing,” the EFCC affirmed.
The court is set to reconvene on January 24, where Onyedikachukwu is expected to face charges related to the alleged fraudulent activities.
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