A federal high court in Lagos has scheduled February 14 for the arraignment of Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the former manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.
Onyedikachukwu, founder of EeZee Conceptz, faces accusations of financial misconduct related to the singer's earnings.
According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Chinwo alleged that her former manager withheld royalties from her digital platforms and event earnings. The agency claims Onyedikachukwu diverted about $345,000 without sharing her portion.
During a previous court session, Bilikisu Buhari, representing the EFCC, argued for an arrest warrant to ensure Onyedikachukwu's court appearance. Last week, Judge Alexander Owoeye granted the request.
However, at a hearing on Friday, Buhari asked the court to withdraw the warrant after Onyedikachukwu’s lawyer said he was unaware of the summons and needed time to prepare. The defense assured the court that the former manager would voluntarily appear for the next session, leading to the withdrawal of the warrant.
Onyedikachukwu has denied the allegations, claiming he gave Chinwo $625,000 while she publicly portrays herself as a victim of an unfair contract.
The case isn't the first dispute involving Onyedikachukwu. Another former EeZee Conceptz artist, Judikay, recently accused him of theft, alleging he falsified financial records and altered streaming data to defraud her of £800,000.
The court proceedings are set to continue next month.
