A Federal High Court in Lagos has upheld the arrest warrant issued against Ezekiel Onyedikachi, the former manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, over allegations of diverting $345,000 in royalties meant for the singer.
During Monday’s proceedings, Justice Alexander Owoeye reaffirmed the warrant while adjourning Onyedikachi’s criminal trial.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had secured the warrant on January 16 after the defendant failed to respond to fraud charges filed against him.
At a previous hearing, Onyedikachi’s lawyer, Dr. Monday Ubani, had assured the court that he would accept service of the charges on behalf of his client. However, Onyedikachi has yet to appear before the court.
During the latest session, Ubani informed the court that Onyedikachi was involved in an accident earlier that day, preventing him from attending the trial.
He assured the judge that his client would be present at the next hearing.
Justice Owoeye, however, dismissed any objections from the defence, stating that the court had not yet assumed jurisdiction since the defendant had yet to be arraigned.
Prosecuting counsel Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) criticized Onyedikachi’s absence, describing it as a “show of shame” and an act of disrespect toward the court.
He further alleged that Onyedikachi had been seen giving media interviews after a previous court session, despite claiming to be unavailable for trial.
The court maintained the existing bench warrant and ordered that Onyedikachi must appear in court for his arraignment at the next hearing, scheduled for March 6.