Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court in Lagos has declined to proceed with the arraignment of Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, better known as Eezee Tee, the former manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.
The decision, made by the court earlier this week, comes after allegations surfaced that Eezee Tee was involved in financial mismanagement, which has been at the heart of the ongoing disputes between the artist and her former manager. Mercy Chinwo has previously accused Eezee Tee of withholding earnings and diverting funds from her music performances, claims that have sparked a public dispute and resulted in the legal action.
The EFCC had also filed a four-count charge against Onyedikachi over alleged fraudulent conversion. The charged Onyedikachukwu and his company, Eezee Tee, with money laundering and dishonest conversion of $340,000.
During Thursday’s proceedings, prosecutor Mrs Bilikisu Buhari appeared for the EFCC, while Mr Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), and Dr Monday Ubani represented the defence.
Buhari informed the court that the matter was set for arraignment, and the defence confirmed their readiness to proceed. However, Justice Owoeye clarified that he could not take the arraignment due to ongoing administrative procedures in respect of the matter and that he would not be able to make any pronouncement in the case.
“There is an administrative procedure going on in this case, and until it is completed, I cannot make any pronouncement on it,” he said.
Defence counsel Ojukwu then sought confirmation on whether parties should maintain the status quo. The court, however reiterated that no pronouncement would be made until the administrative process was completed.
He subsequently adjourned the matter till May 14.
While the details surrounding the charges remain unclear, the court’s refusal to proceed with the arraignment raises questions about the evidence and the legal arguments presented
For Mercy Chinwo, the decision marks a temporary setback in her ongoing efforts to hold those involved in her former management accountable. Her legal team has remained steadfast, continuing to pursue justice in relation to the alleged financial misconduct, which has been a major point of contention between the gospel artist and her ex-manager.
By Ezinne Okorie.
