Court issues arrest warrant against Mercy Chinwo’s manager over alleged $345,000 fraud

A Federal High Court in Lagos has issued a warrant for the arrest of Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, manager to gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, over allegations of financial misconduct.

The arrest warrant was granted on Thursday by Justice Alexander Owoeye following an ex parte motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Representing the EFCC, counsel Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari moved the application under provisions of the 1999 Constitution and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (2015).

According to an affidavit deposed by EFCC investigator Mr. Michael Idoko, the commission received a petition from Mercy Chinwo accusing her manager of collecting royalties from her digital platforms and events without her knowledge or consent.

The singer alleges that Onyedikachukwu diverted approximately $345,000 meant to be shared with her.

The EFCC disclosed that multiple attempts to apprehend Onyedikachukwu had been unsuccessful, prompting the need for the court-issued warrant.

Buhari informed the court that failure to arrest the manager may result in a public summons to declare him wanted.

Justice Owoeye granted the application and adjourned the case to January 24, 2025, for the arraignment of the accused.