A Federal High Court in Lagos has declined to arraign Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the former manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, citing an ongoing administrative process.
Justice Alexander Owoeye ruled on Thursday that the case could not proceed until the necessary administrative procedures were completed.
Onyedikachukwu and his company, Eezee Tee, face money laundering and dishonest conversion charges from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged $340,000 financial misappropriation linked to Chinwo’s digital platforms and events.
During the session, EFCC prosecutor Mrs. Bilikisu Buhari stated that the commission was ready for arraignment, a position supported by Onyedikachukwu’s defense team, led by Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) and Monday Ubani.
However, Justice Owoeye insisted that the court would not proceed until the administrative process was resolved. While Ojukwu sought clarification on maintaining the status quo, the judge declined to make any pronouncement at this stage.
The defense also reminded the court that Onyedikachukwu had appeared as previously guaranteed, but the court stood firm on delaying the case.
By mutual agreement, the case was adjourned until May 14.
The EFCC secured an arrest warrant for Onyedikachukwu on January 16 but withdrew it on January 24 before ordering his court appearance on February 17.
Meanwhile, Onyedikachukwu’s legal team has filed a preliminary objection, arguing that the case is a contractual dispute rather than a criminal offense.
