A Federal High Court in Lagos has ruled that the arrest warrant issued against Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, former manager to gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, remains in force.
Justice Alexander Owoeye made the declaration during Monday’s court session, as the case involving Onyedikachukwu’s alleged financial misconduct continued.
Allegations of Fraud
Chinwo has accused Onyedikachukwu of diverting $345,000 in royalties owed to her. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a three-count charge against him, including allegations of money laundering and fraudulent diversion of funds.
Due to difficulties in serving him with the charges, the EFCC previously sought and obtained an arrest warrant against the defendant.
Legal Proceedings and Defence Challenges
At the last hearing on 24 January, Onyedikachukwu’s lawyer, Monday Ubani (SAN), attempted to have the arrest warrant revoked. However, the EFCC argued that the defendant was evading service, justifying the court’s decision to issue the warrant. The court permitted the EFCC to serve the charge through his lawyer.
On Monday, Ubani informed the court that the defence had filed a preliminary objection challenging the charges. However, Justice Owoeye questioned the absence of the defendant. Ubani claimed Onyedikachukwu had been in a serious accident that morning but assured the court he would appear at the next hearing.
EFCC Calls for Bench Warrant
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Rotimi Oyedepo, representing the EFCC, criticised the defence’s actions, citing Section 396(2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. He argued that Onyedikachukwu’s absence on three separate occasions demonstrated disrespect for the court.
Oyedepo also revealed that the defendant had been seen giving media interviews at the court premises after a previous adjournment. He insisted that if Onyedikachukwu was truly indisposed, the defence should have provided proof via affidavit.
To uphold the court’s authority, Oyedepo urged the judge to issue a new bench warrant compelling the defendant’s attendance. However, Ubani objected, promising to produce his client at the next hearing.
Court’s Ruling
Justice Owoeye ruled that the original bench warrant remained valid, as it had not been withdrawn. He ordered Onyedikachukwu to appear in court at the next adjourned date for arraignment.
The court, with the agreement of both parties, adjourned the case to 6 March for the defendant’s arraignment.