Court Issues Arrest Warrant for Gospel Singer, Mercy Chinwo’s Manager Over Alleged $345,000 Fraud

Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court in Lagos has issued an arrest warrant against Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the manager of popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. This decision was made on Thursday following an ex parte motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Representing the EFCC, Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari explained to the court that the motion was filed under Section 35(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution and provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015. She urged the court to compel Onyedikachukwu to appear and face criminal charges. Buhari also mentioned that the EFCC would issue a public summons declaring him wanted if the arrest could not be executed.

The case stems from an EFCC affidavit that included a petition by Mercy Chinwo accusing Onyedikachukwu of misappropriating royalties from her digital platforms and events. Chinwo alleged that her manager diverted approximately $345,000 without remitting her due share.

The anti-graft agency disclosed that all efforts to apprehend Onyedikachukwu had been unsuccessful, prompting the need for the warrant.

Justice Owoeye granted the EFCC’s request and adjourned the matter to January 24, 2025, for Onyedikachukwu’s arraignment.