A Federal High Court in Lagos has reaffirmed the validity of the arrest warrant against Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, also known as Eezee, former manager to gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, following allegations of money laundering and fraudulent diversion of $345,000 in royalties due to her.
Justice Alexander Owoeye made the ruling during proceedings on Monday. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had filed a three-count charge against Onyedikachukwu, but efforts to serve him with the charges had been unsuccessful, as he had allegedly evaded service.
At a previous sitting, the EFCC had successfully applied for an arrest warrant, and the court later granted permission for the charges to be served through Onyedikachukwu’s counsel, Senior Advocate Monday Ubani.
During Monday’s hearing, Ubani informed the court that the defendant was absent due to a serious accident, but assured that he would be present at the next adjourned date. However, EFCC prosecutor Rotimi Oyedepo criticized the defendant’s repeated absences, calling it disrespectful and a “show of shame.” Oyedepo also requested a bench warrant to ensure the defendant’s attendance, but Ubani opposed the motion, promising to personally ensure the defendant’s presence.
In response, Justice Owoeye confirmed that the earlier-issued bench warrant remained in effect, as it had not been withdrawn. The case was adjourned until March 6 for Onyedikachukwu’s arraignment.
