A Federal High Court in Lagos has issued a warrant for the arrest of Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the manager of renowned gospel artist Mercy Chinwo. The decision, made on Thursday, followed a motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which accuses Onyedikachukwu of diverting $345,000 meant for the singer.
Justice Alexander Owoeye approved the arrest warrant after hearing an ex parte application presented by EFCC counsel Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari. Citing Section 35(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution and relevant sections of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, Buhari argued that Onyedikachukwu’s arrest was necessary to ensure his appearance in court.
In court, Buhari emphasized the importance of the warrant, stating it was essential for the manager to face allegations of financial misconduct. She noted that if the EFCC could not apprehend him, it might have to issue a public summons declaring him wanted.
The EFCC’s case stems from a petition filed by Mercy Chinwo, accusing her manager of mishandling funds from her digital platforms and events.
An affidavit supporting the application, signed by EFCC investigator Mr. Michael Idoko, claimed Onyedikachukwu collected royalties without transparency or proper accounting. Chinwo alleged that $345,000, which should have been shared with her, was diverted for the manager’s personal use.
Despite efforts by the EFCC to contact or arrest Onyedikachukwu, the manager has reportedly evaded law enforcement, leading to the request for the court’s intervention.
Justice Owoeye granted the EFCC’s application and adjourned the case to January 24, when Onyedikachukwu is expected to be arraigned. If he remains at large, further actions, including declaring him wanted, may be taken.
