Producer claims discovering Mercy Chinwo, denies $345,000 theft

Eeze Conceptz founder Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu denies gospel singer Mercy Chinwo’s allegations, calling them false and baseless.

Onyedikachukwu’s lawyer, Mr. Maxwell Opara, made this statement in Abuja on Saturday, sharing the details with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Lawyer dismisses claims

Opara explained that Mercy Chinwo’s accusations, including claims of financial mismanagement and contract breaches, were misleading.

He alleged that Chinwo violated a five-year record label and management contract she signed with Eeze Conceptz Limited in 2017.

The lawyer clarified that Onyedikachukwu was never Chinwo’s manager but her producer.

“Mr. Onyedikachukwu discovered Mercy Chinwo’s talent in 2017,” Opara said. “He nurtured her, produced her music, and played a significant role in establishing her as a notable figure in the gospel music industry.”

Opara strongly denied accusations that Onyedikachukwu diverted $345,000 in royalties. “The allegations of fund diversion are completely false,” he said. “Both Chinwo and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) are well aware of how to contact Mr. Onyedikachukwu if needed.”

EFCC involvement raises questions

The EFCC had earlier secured an arrest warrant for Onyedikachukwu based on allegations made by Chinwo.

Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court in Lagos granted the order following a motion by EFCC lawyer Bilikisu Buhari.

The commission claims Onyedikachukwu misappropriated royalties from Chinwo’s digital platforms and events.

In response, Opara criticized the EFCC’s actions, highlighting inconsistencies in their approach. He revealed that Onyedikachukwu had been detained by the EFCC in Ilorin from April 16 to April 25, 2024, during which his bank accounts were audited. “The audit found no evidence of wrongdoing,” Opara said.

Despite this, the EFCC reportedly claimed Onyedikachukwu could not be located, leading to the controversial arrest warrant. “It is shocking that the EFCC continues to allege his inaccessibility after previously detaining and auditing him,” Opara stated.

Legal steps to address the issue

Opara disclosed that a fundamental rights enforcement suit was filed on July 17, 2024, at the Federal High Court in Lagos. This lawsuit aims to prevent further harassment, arrest, or detention of Onyedikachukwu.

He accused Chinwo of orchestrating a smear campaign against Eeze Conceptz Limited and its founder. “The public should disregard any false publications or campaigns initiated by Mercy Chinwo,” Opara urged.

The lawyer also elaborated on the terms of Chinwo’s contract with the label. According to him, the agreement included provisions for catalog ownership and revenue sharing from music projects financed and promoted by Eeze Conceptz Limited. However, he alleged that Chinwo breached the contract.

Onyedikachukwu’s detention and court proceedings

Opara criticized the EFCC for obtaining an ex-parte arrest warrant under questionable circumstances. “These schemes aim to tarnish the reputation of Eeze Conceptz Limited and its founder,” he said.

Justice Owoeye has adjourned the case until January 24, 2025, for Onyedikachukwu’s arraignment.

A call for justice

The lawyer expressed confidence that the court would rule in favor of his client. “We are committed to presenting the truth in court,” Opara said. “We believe justice will prevail once the evidence is examined.”

He reassured the public of his client’s integrity and urged them to await the court’s findings. “This is not just about defending Mr. Onyedikachukwu but also about protecting the credibility of the gospel music industry,” Opara concluded.

As the legal battle unfolds, both parties await their day in court to address these serious allegations.

Read Also: Court orders arrest of Mercy Chinwo’s manager