Court Orders Arrest of Mercy Chinwo’s Manager Over Alleged $345,000 Diversion

A Federal High Court in Lagos has issued an arrest warrant for Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the manager of renowned gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.

Justice Alexander Owoeye approved the warrant on Thursday, January 16, following an ex parte motion presented by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

During the proceedings, EFCC counsel Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari explained that the application was made under the 1999 Constitution and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015. The motion sought to compel Onyedikachukwu’s court appearance to address allegations of criminal misconduct.

An affidavit submitted by EFCC investigator Michael Idoko revealed that Mercy Chinwo had filed a petition accusing her manager of collecting royalties from her digital platforms and events without proper disclosure. Onyedikachukwu allegedly diverted $345,000 without remitting her share.

The EFCC counsel highlighted that previous attempts to apprehend Onyedikachukwu had failed, necessitating the application for a warrant. She added that a public summons would be issued if his whereabouts remained unknown.

The court granted the EFCC’s request and adjourned the case to January 24 for Onyedikachukwu’s arraignment.