Gospel Star Mercy Chinwo Slams Ex-Manager with $345K Fraud Lawsuit

In a legal battle that has captured public attention, celebrated Nigerian gospel singer Mercy Chinwo has taken her former manager, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, to court over allegations of misappropriating $345,000 in music royalties.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has stepped in, filing a motion to compel Onyedikachukwu’s appearance in court. Following the motion, the Lagos State Federal High Court issued an arrest warrant against him. The embattled manager is set to face arraignment on January 24th, 2025, for allegedly failing to remit Chinwo’s rightful share of earnings from her online music platforms and concert revenues.

According to an affidavit filed by the EFCC, Mercy Chinwo initiated the investigation by submitting a petition detailing the alleged financial discrepancies. The petition accused Onyedikachukwu, who also owned EeZee Conceptz, the record label Chinwo was signed to in 2017, of withholding substantial royalties from her music career.

Efforts by the EFCC to apprehend Onyedikachukwu have so far been unsuccessful, prompting the agency to seek a court-issued arrest warrant. Justice Alexander Owoeye granted the application on Thursday, signaling the court’s commitment to ensuring justice is served.

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Mercy Chinwo rose to fame after winning the second edition of "Nigerian Idol" in 2012 and later signed with EeZee Conceptz, managed by Onyedikachukwu. However, their professional relationship began to unravel in September 2022 amid rumors of financial disagreements. Chinwo subsequently left the label, which many speculated was due to her dissatisfaction with the management of her earnings.

This development has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian music industry, raising questions about the accountability of artist managers and record labels. Fans and fellow artists have expressed their support for Mercy Chinwo, commending her for taking a stand against alleged exploitation.

As Onyedikachukwu prepares for his arraignment, the case highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the music industry, particularly regarding financial dealings. The court proceedings scheduled for January 24th, 2025, will shed light on the allegations and could set a precedent for artist-manager relationships in Nigeria.