A federal court in Lagos State has issued an arrest warrant for Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the former manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, over allegations of $345,000 fraud.
The decision came on Thursday, January 16, 2025, following an ex parte motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The presiding judge granted the application after hearing arguments from Bilikisu Buhari, the EFCC’s representative in court. Buhari cited provisions from the 1999 Constitution and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, to support the motion for Onyedikachukwu’s arrest.
The EFCC’s case stems from a petition submitted by Mercy Chinwo, accusing her former manager of financial misconduct. According to the agency, Onyedikachukwu allegedly received substantial royalties from Chinwo’s digital platforms and events without disclosing the transactions to her.
The funds, totaling approximately $345,000, were reportedly diverted without the singer receiving her rightful share. The EFCC noted that these allegations prompted their request for the court’s intervention to secure Onyedikachukwu’s arrest and ensure justice is served.
In court filings, the EFCC expressed concerns that Onyedikachukwu might evade justice, emphasizing the need for swift action. They warned that if efforts to apprehend him fail, they would seek a public summons to declare him wanted.
The court acknowledged the urgency of the matter and adjourned proceedings until January 24, 2025, when Onyedikachukwu is expected to be arraigned. This legal action marks a significant step in addressing the allegations of financial impropriety that have clouded Chinwo’s career relations.
The case sheds light on Mercy Chinwo’s journey in the Nigerian music industry, which began with her rise to fame after winning the Nigerian Idol music contest. Following her victory, she signed with the Eezee Global Record label, a move that propelled her to greater heights.
Chinwo released several successful songs and videos under the label, earning millions of streams and views across major digital platforms. However, her departure from the label in 2022 sparked rumors of a rift, as it occurred without an official announcement.
While Chinwo remained silent about her exit, the current allegations against her former manager suggest deeper tensions behind the scenes. The singer’s accusations have not only brought Onyedikachukwu’s actions under scrutiny but have also highlighted broader issues within the music industry, particularly around artist management and financial transparency.
As the case unfolds, it could set a precedent for how such disputes are handled, potentially leading to reforms in the industry.
This unfolding legal battle has garnered significant attention from fans and industry stakeholders, reflecting broader concerns about the protection of artists’ rights. Mercy Chinwo’s situation underscores the challenges many artists face in safeguarding their earnings and maintaining transparency in professional relationships.
As the January 24 court date approaches, all eyes remain on Lagos, where the outcome could have lasting implications for Chinwo’s career and the Nigerian music industry as a whole.
