A Federal High Court in Lagos has issued a warrant of arrest against Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the manager of popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo for allegedly diverting $345,000.
The gospel singer alleged that Onyedikachukwu had been collecting royalties from her digital platforms and events without proper disclosure.
Justice Alexander Owoeye granted the order on Thursday, January 16, after an ex parte motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
During the hearing, EFCC counsel Mrs Bilikisu Buhari informed the court of an application made under the provisions of the 1999 Constitution and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.
The motion sought an arrest warrant to compel the manager’s appearance in court to face allegations of criminal misconduct.
In support of the application, an affidavit deposed by EFCC investigator Michael Idoko stated that the commission received a petition from Chinwo against her manager.
According to the affidavit, the manager is accused of diverting $345,000 without remitting her share.
The EFCC counsel noted that prior efforts to arrest the manager had been unsuccessful, prompting the application for the warrant.
She further stated that the commission would issue a public summons if the manager could not be located.
The court granted the EFCC’s application and adjourned the case to January 24 for the manager’s arraignment.
