Gospel singer Mercy Chinwo’s former manager, Ezekiel Thankgod Onyedikachi, is scheduled to appear in court on February 14, 2025, to face charges of alleged financial mismanagement, despite the recent withdrawal of an arrest warrant against him to.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) initiated legal action against Mr. Onyedikachi following allegations that he diverted approximately $345,000 in royalties from Ms. Chinwo’s digital platforms and events without remitting her share. These allegations led the EFCC to seek a warrant for his arrest.
On January 16, 2025, Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court in Lagos granted the EFCC’s request for an arrest warrant against Mr. Onyedikachi. However, during a subsequent hearing, the EFCC, represented by prosecutor Bilikisu Buhari, requested the withdrawal of the arrest warrant. This decision was influenced by the defense counsel’s assurance that Mr. Onyedikachi was unaware of the initial summons and would voluntarily appear in court. Consequently, the court vacated the arrest warrant.
Despite the withdrawal of the arrest warrant, the court has scheduled Mr. Onyedikachi’s arraignment for February 14, 2025. During this session, he is expected to respond to the charges of misappropriating funds intended for Ms. Chinwo. The court will also address any pending applications related to the case.
Mr. Onyedikachi’s legal representative, Dr. Monday Ubani, contends that the EFCC misled the court in obtaining the arrest warrant, arguing that the matter is a contractual dispute rather than a criminal case. He has filed a preliminary objection to the charges and a fundamental rights enforcement suit against the EFCC, seeking to prevent his client’s arrest.
The EFCC maintains that Mr. Onyedikachi engaged in criminal activities by diverting substantial funds from Ms. Chinwo’s earnings without her consent. The commission has formally served the charges to Mr. Onyedikachi’s counsel and is prepared to proceed with the case in court.
As the legal proceedings progress, the court will evaluate the evidence presented by both parties to determine the validity of the allegations against Mr. Onyedikachi. The upcoming arraignment on February 14 will be a critical juncture in this case, providing clarity on the legal standing of the accusations and the defense’s arguments.
For a visual report on this development, you can watch the following video: