A Federal High Court in Lagos has postponed the arraignment of Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, former manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, citing an ongoing administrative process.
Justice Alexander Owoeye, presiding over the case on Thursday, March 6, ruled that proceedings could not commence until the process was concluded.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged Onyedikachukwu and his company, Eezee Tee, with money laundering and the dishonest conversion of $340,000.
During the session, EFCC prosecutor Bilikisu Buhari informed the court that the case was set for arraignment, with the defence, represented by senior lawyers Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) and Monday Ubani, expressing readiness to proceed.
However, Justice Owoeye clarified, “I cannot take the arraignment due to an ongoing administrative process.”
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Ojukwu then asked whether all parties should maintain the status quo, to which the court responded that no pronouncement would be made until the matter was resolved administratively.
Ubani reminded the court of his previous commitment to present the defendant, which he had now fulfilled. The court acknowledged his statement but maintained its stance.
Following a consensus between both parties, the case was adjourned to May 14.
The charges stem from allegations that Onyedikachukwu withheld funds generated from Chinwo’s digital platforms and events.
The EFCC had initially secured an arrest warrant for Onyedikachukwu on January 16 but withdrew it on January 24. On February 17, the court directed him to appear for arraignment.
Meanwhile, the defence has filed a preliminary objection, arguing that the dispute is contractual rather than criminal.