A simmering feud in Nigeria’s gospel music industry has taken a dramatic turn as Apostle Anselm Madubuko, the General Overseer of Revival Assembly Church in Lagos, has broken his silence on the ongoing dispute involving popular gospel artist Mercy Chinwo, Ezekiel ThankGod (popularly known as EezeeTee), and Judikay. According to Madubuko, attempts to reconcile the parties have been consistently thwarted by EezeeTee, who is now under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a detailed statement titled “My Intervention in the Mercy Chinwo, Judikay, and Ezekiel ThankGod (EezeeTee) Matter,” Madubuko revealed that the dispute centers on allegations of financial impropriety and revenue diversion. He emphasized the importance of humility, fairness, and transparency in resolving such issues among believers.
A Timeline of Failed Reconciliation Efforts
The feud, which began in 2022, reportedly escalated over revenue-sharing disputes between Mercy Chinwo and EezeeTee. “Determined to foster peace, I invited both parties to my home for a reconciliation meeting,” Madubuko stated. Esteemed gospel minister Chioma Jesus also participated in the meeting to lend her support.
During the initial talks, many grievances were addressed, but allegations of revenue diversion remained unresolved. Madubuko proposed engaging an independent auditor to review financial records. This plan was accepted by all parties, with an agreement to reconvene in February 2023.
At the second meeting, Olatunji Fanifosi & Co., an independent auditing firm, was present, along with key stakeholders, including Chinwo, EezeeTee, and representatives from both camps. However, the process soon hit a wall. “Ezekiel abandoned the process shortly after the meeting and withheld Mercy’s royalties for two years,” Madubuko said, lamenting the breakdown in communication.
EFCC Involvement and Renewed Efforts
By 2024, the unresolved matter reached the EFCC’s attention, prompting EezeeTee to approach Madubuko once again for intervention. “Ezekiel admitted his mistakes and requested Mercy and Judikay to withdraw their EFCC cases to allow me to mediate,” the cleric explained.
In response, Madubuko organized another meeting involving key stakeholders, including Mercy’s husband, Pastor Blessed, and Judikay’s husband, Pastor Anselem. During this session, EezeeTee agreed to an independent audit by Pearson Consulting Limited.
However, Madubuko disclosed that EezeeTee’s cooperation was short-lived. Reports soon surfaced that he was obstructing the audit by refusing to provide critical financial documents. “Despite my efforts to urge compliance, Ezekiel’s actions caused the process to stall. The auditors later revealed that the findings were devastating,” he said.
Allegations of Financial Impropriety
At the heart of the dispute is a 50/50 revenue-sharing agreement between the parties. According to Madubuko, the core issue lies in EezeeTee’s refusal to provide records detailing his share of the revenue. “All efforts to mediate and resolve this matter peacefully were hindered by Ezekiel’s actions,” he noted.
While Mercy Chinwo has remained tight-lipped about the controversy, the EFCC’s involvement underscores the seriousness of the allegations. Industry insiders believe the case could set a precedent for transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s gospel music scene.
A Call for Resolution
Madubuko expressed his disappointment at the failed reconciliation efforts but remains hopeful for a peaceful resolution. “As children of God, we are called to seek peace and uphold integrity in all our dealings,” he said, urging all parties to embrace transparency and humility.
The statement concludes with a prayer for wisdom and unity within the gospel music community. “This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and mutual respect in all relationships,” Madubuko emphasized.
Industry Reactions and Broader Implications
The dispute has sparked widespread discussions about the financial practices within the gospel music industry. Experts argue that the lack of regulatory oversight has created a breeding ground for conflicts. “This case highlights the urgent need for clear contractual agreements and transparent accounting practices in the industry,” said entertainment lawyer Abimbola Adekoya.
