A Federal High Court in Lagos has issued a warrant for the arrest of Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the manager of renowned gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, over allegations of financial misconduct.
The order was granted on Thursday by Justice Alexander Owoeye following an ex parte motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The anti-graft agency sought the court’s intervention to secure Onyedikachukwu’s arrest after repeated unsuccessful attempts to apprehend him.
The EFCC, represented in court by counsel Bilikisu Buhari, filed the application citing provisions of the 1999 Constitution and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) of 2015. Buhari explained to the court that Onyedikachukwu’s appearance was essential to address allegations of criminal diversion of funds belonging to Mercy Chinwo.
She further informed the court that if the EFCC was unable to apprehend the manager, they would resort to a public summons and declare he wanted to ensure his compliance with the court’s directive.
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Justice Owoeye approved the EFCC’s application and issued the warrant, requiring Onyedikachukwu to appear in court. The judge also scheduled January 24 for Onyedikachukwu’s arraignment, where he is expected to answer the allegations leveled against him.
The case originated from a petition filed by Mercy Chinwo, who accused Onyedikachukwu of financial impropriety. According to the petition, the manager allegedly received royalties from Chinwo’s digital platforms and performances but failed to fully disclose or remit the funds to her.
An affidavit presented to the court by EFCC investigator Michael Idoko detailed that Onyedikachukwu was accused of diverting $345,000, which was intended for Chinwo, for his personal use. The funds, primarily generated from Chinwo’s music royalties and event performances, were allegedly withheld without her consent or proper explanation.
The court order followed the EFCC’s report of unsuccessful attempts to arrest Onyedikachukwu, raising questions about his whereabouts.
The next hearing on January 24 will determine whether Onyedikachukwu will be held responsible for his alleged misconduct.
