$345,000 fraud: Court rejects Mercy Chinwo’s ex-manager’s arraignment

A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has declined the arraignment of Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, a former manager of popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.

The presiding judge, Justice Alexander Owoeye, on Thursday, March 6, 2025, held that the court would not proceed with the case until an ongoing administrative process was concluded.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged Onyedikachukwu and his company, Eezee Tee, with money laundering and dishonest conversion of $345,000.

During Thursday’s proceedings, prosecutor Bilikisu Buhari appeared for the EFCC, while Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) and Dr Monday Ubani represented the defendants.

Buhari informed the court that the matter was set for arraignment, and the defence counsel confirmed their readiness to proceed. However, Justice Owoeye clarified that he could not take the arraignment due to ongoing administrative procedures.

Ojukwu then sought confirmation on whether parties should maintain the status quo.

The judge, however, reiterated that no pronouncement would be made until the administrative process was completed.

Court orders Mercy Chinwo’s manager’s arrest over $345,000 fraud

Ubani reminded the court that he had previously undertaken to present the defendant, which he had now fulfilled. The judge acknowledged this but maintained the court’s position.

Following mutual agreement, Justice Owoeye adjourned the case until May 14, 2025.

The charges allege that Onyedikachukwu withheld funds from Chinwo’s digital platforms and events.

The EFCC secured an arrest warrant for Onyedikachukwu on January 16 but withdrew it on January 24.

On February 17, the court ordered Onyedikachukwu’s appearance for arraignment.

Meanwhile, the defence has filed a preliminary objection, arguing that the matter was a contract dispute rather than a criminal case.

The Star