Court orders arrest of Mercy Chinwo’s manager

A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, issued a warrant of arrest on Thursday against Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the manager of popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.

The order was given by Justice Alexander Owoeye following a motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

EFCC pushes for Manager’s arrest

During Thursday’s hearing, EFCC counsel Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari presented the case before the court. She filed the motion pursuant to Section 35(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution and Sections 35, 36, 37, 38, and 39 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015.

Buhari explained that the arrest warrant was necessary to compel Onyedikachukwu to appear in court and answer to criminal allegations.

“The application seeks to ensure the manager’s presence in court,” Buhari said. “He must respond to the accusations leveled against him.”

She warned that if the EFCC failed to arrest the manager, the commission might issue a public summons to declare him wanted.

Serious allegations surface

The EFCC revealed that the case originated from a petition submitted by Mercy Chinwo. According to an affidavit filed by EFCC investigator Mr. Michael Idoko, Chinwo accused Onyedikachukwu of financial misconduct.

She alleged that her manager had been collecting royalties from her digital platforms and events without her knowledge or consent.

The affidavit disclosed that Onyedikachukwu allegedly diverted $345,000, which he failed to share with Chinwo as agreed.

The EFCC stated that multiple attempts to locate and arrest Onyedikachukwu had been unsuccessful, prompting the need for the court-issued warrant.

Judge grants EFCC’s request

After reviewing the motion and supporting affidavit, Justice Owoeye granted the EFCC’s application. The court issued the warrant of arrest and scheduled the manager’s arraignment for January 24.

This legal action marks a critical step in the case against Onyedikachukwu. If the EFCC fails to apprehend him, the commission may resort to broader measures to ensure his accountability.

Implications for the gospel music industry

The case has sparked interest across the gospel music community and beyond. Mercy Chinwo, known for her chart-topping songs and spiritual influence, is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s music scene.

The allegations against her manager have raised concerns about trust and transparency in the artist-manager relationship.

Industry stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions. Some see the case as a warning to ensure ethical practices, while others believe it underscores the need for artists to maintain financial oversight.

Next steps

As the court awaits the arraignment, the EFCC is intensifying efforts to locate Onyedikachukwu. Legal experts suggest that the case could set a precedent for how financial disputes in the entertainment industry are addressed.

Meanwhile, Mercy Chinwo has remained silent, refraining from making public statements about the case.

Observers will be watching closely as the case unfolds. For now, the spotlight remains on the EFCC’s ability to bring Onyedikachukwu to justice and restore faith in the management practices within the music industry.

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