A Federal High Court in Lagos, presided over by Justice Alexander Owoeye, has issued an arrest warrant for Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the manager of renowned gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. The warrant comes in response to allegations of financial misconduct involving $345,000.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) sought the warrant following a motion ex parte. The EFCC’s counsel, Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari, presented the case, citing constitutional and legal provisions under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.

According to Buhari, the arrest warrant is necessary to compel Onyedikachukwu’s court appearance to address criminal charges linked to the alleged fraud. She further warned that if the manager remains elusive, the EFCC may issue a public summons to declare him wanted.

The case revolves around a petition filed by Mercy Chinwo, accusing her manager of withholding royalty payments from her digital platforms and events. The EFCC’s investigation, led by Mr. Michael Idoko, uncovered claims that Onyedikachukwu diverted approximately $345,000 without remitting Chinwo’s share.

Despite efforts to apprehend Onyedikachukwu, he has remained out of reach, prompting the court to grant the EFCC’s request for an arrest warrant. The court has scheduled the manager’s arraignment for January 24, 2025.

This development has garnered widespread attention due to the high-profile nature of the case and the significant sum involved. Many are eagerly watching to see how the situation will unfold when Onyedikachukwu appears in court on January 24, 2025.