The arraignment of Ezekiel Onyedikachi (aka Eezeetee), the former manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, was delayed on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Lagos due to administrative procedures.
Onyedikachi faces allegations of fraud involving the conversion of $840,477, as filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
EFCC had amended its charge to a 15-count indictment, accusing Onyedikachi of fraud and money laundering. During the proceedings, EFCC counsel Bilikisu Buhari appeared for the prosecution, while Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN, and Dr. Monday Ubani, SAN, represented the defendant.
The presiding judge, Justice Alexander Owoeye, informed the court that an administrative procedure was ongoing, preventing him from making any decisions on the matter. He also declined a request from Ojukwu to maintain the status quo until the procedure was completed.
The case has been adjourned until May 14, 2025.
In a surprising turn, after the hearing, Onyedikachi fled the court premises while media personnel were attempting to capture footage of the proceedings. Journalists were seen taking pictures as he ran out of the courtroom.
