Renowned gospel singer Mercy Chinwo has taken legal action against her former manager, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, accusing him of misappropriating $345,000 in music royalties.
In response to the allegations, the Nigerian Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed a motion to ensure Onyedikachukwu’s court appearance. Consequently, a warrant for his arrest was issued by the Lagos State Federal High Court.
Onyedikachukwu is set to be arraigned on January 24, 2025, for allegedly withholding Chinwo’s rightful share of music royalties earned from her online platforms and concert performances.
According to an affidavit submitted by the EFCC, the case began when Chinwo lodged a formal petition against her former manager. Despite the Commission’s efforts to apprehend him, he has remained elusive, prompting the request for an arrest warrant.
Justice Alexander Owoeye approved the warrant on Thursday.
It is worth noting that Mercy Chinwo was signed to EeZee Conceptz, a record label owned by Onyedikachukwu, in 2017 after her victory in the second edition of Nigerian Idol. However, reports in September 2022 revealed that she left the label following disputes over financial issues.