A Federal High Court in Lagos has issued an arrest warrant for Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the manager of renowned gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, over allegations of diverting $345,000 in royalties and event earnings.
Justice Alexander Owoeye granted the warrant on Thursday following an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which alleged that Onyedikachukwu had committed financial crimes against his client.
EFCC’s Case Against the Manager
Representing the EFCC, counsel Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari informed the court of a motion brought under Section 35(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution and provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) of 2015. Buhari urged the court to compel Onyedikachukwu’s arrest, arguing that he had repeatedly evaded attempts by law enforcement to bring him to justice.
“The respondent has been untraceable despite our diligent efforts to investigate and apprehend him,” Buhari told the court.
The EFCC disclosed that Mercy Chinwo, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated gospel singers, had filed a formal complaint against her manager. She accused him of collecting substantial royalties from her digital music platforms and earnings from performances without proper disclosure or remittance.
An affidavit submitted to the court detailed allegations that Onyedikachukwu diverted approximately $345,000 (about ₦260 million) owed to Chinwo over an unspecified period.
Chinwo Speaks Out
Though Chinwo has yet to make an official public statement regarding the scandal, insiders reveal she expressed deep disappointment and betrayal. Known for her hit songs like Excess Love and Chinedum, Chinwo has long been a beacon of gospel music in Nigeria and beyond, amassing millions of followers and a global fan base.
The revelations have sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s gospel music industry, sparking debates on the accountability and transparency of artist management.
Failed Arrest Attempts
The EFCC noted that several attempts to locate Onyedikachukwu had been unsuccessful, prompting the need for an arrest warrant. Buhari warned that if Onyedikachukwu continues to evade capture, the commission would declare him wanted through public notices.
“His refusal to cooperate has hampered the progress of the investigation,” Buhari added.
Justice Owoeye approved the request, emphasizing the need for Onyedikachukwu to answer the charges. The case has been adjourned until January 24 for his formal arraignment.
A Growing Concern in the Industry
The incident has reignited conversations about financial fraud within Nigeria’s entertainment sector. Artists, especially in the music industry, often rely heavily on managers to oversee their revenue streams, including royalties, event earnings, and brand endorsements. However, this reliance has sometimes led to exploitation, as seen in this case.
Industry insiders are calling for stricter regulations and accountability mechanisms to safeguard artists’ earnings. Gospel artist Buchi Atuonwu commented on the matter, saying, “It’s heartbreaking to see such betrayal in a space that should be built on trust. This is a wake-up call for all creatives to prioritize financial literacy.”
Mercy Chinwo’s Meteoric Rise
Mercy Chinwo’s journey from winning Nigerian Idol in 2012 to becoming a household name in gospel music is nothing short of remarkable. Her powerful voice and inspiring lyrics have earned her multiple awards, including the Africa Gospel Awards Festival (AGAFEST) Artist of the Year in 2019.
Chinwo’s music, deeply rooted in Christian faith and spirituality, has touched lives worldwide. Her success, however, has also made her a target for exploitation, as demonstrated by the current allegations.
