The Federal High Court in Lagos, Nigeria on Thursday delayed the arraignment of Ezekiel Onyedikachi, former manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, over allegations of fraud and money laundering amounting to $840,477.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had filed a 15-count amended charge against Onyedikachi, accusing him of fraudulently converting the funds. However, when the case, marked FHC/L/578C/2025, was called, presiding judge Justice Alexander Owoeye halted the proceedings due to an ongoing administrative procedure.
“There is an administrative procedure going on in this case, and until it is completed, I cannot make any pronouncement on it,” Justice Owoeye stated. He also denied a request from Onyedikachi’s defense counsel, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) and Dr. Monday Ubani (SAN), to maintain the status quo pending the resolution of the issue.
The EFCC initially filed a four-count charge against Onyedikachi over the alleged fraudulent conversion of $345,000, which was later expanded to 15 counts.
Meanwhile, an unexpected scene unfolded outside the courtroom when Onyedikachi, upon exiting, suddenly ran from the premises as journalists attempted to capture footage of him. Photographers were seen taking snapshots as he fled.
The court adjourned the case until May 14, 2025.
