An order has been issued to effect the immediate arrest of Ezekiel Onyedikachi, the manager of popular Nigerian gospel singer Mercy Chinwo over an alleged diversion of $345,000 USD.
The order was issued on Thursday by Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, following an ex parte brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) seeking the arrest of Onyedikachi.
When the case came up for hearing, the counsel representing the EFCC, Mrs Bilikisu Buhari informed the court of an application brought before it by the anti-graft agency and subsequently moved the application seeking the arrest of the musician’s manager.
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According to Mrs Buhari, following failed attempts to nab Onyedikachi, the warrant will aid the EFCC to effect his arrest to answer for an alleged diversion of the sum $345,000 USD which is said to be accruing royalties paid to Mercy Chinwo for her musical works.
She disclosed that Mercy Chinwo’s manager was receiving royalties from all digital platforms and events without informing the singer and also claimed that Onyedikachi diverted $345,000 USD without giving the gospel singer her share.
After listening to Mrs Buhari and also receiving an affidavit in support of the filing, Justice Owoeye granted the application and later adjourned the case until January 24 for further hearing and the arraignment of Onyedikachi.