Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday reaffirmed that the arrest warrant issued against Ezekiel Onyedikachi, the former manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, is still valid.
Justice Owoeye renewed the order before adjourning the criminal case brought against Onyedikachi by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of defrauding the gospel singer.
Chinwo had written a petition to the EFCC, alleging that the defendant diverted approximately $345,000 in royalties because she did not make the necessary remittance.
The anti-graft agency had filed a three-count money laundering charge and diversion of funds against the defendant.
However, although his lawyer represented him, the embattled music producer did not appear before the court to take his plea.
Following the development, the court had ordered his arrest to ensure he came to court to face his trial.
At the last adjourned date on January 24, the defence counsel, Monday Ubani (SAN), had agreed to accept service of the charges on behalf of the defendant.
Ubani also raised a preliminary objection challenging the charges, prompting the court to adjourn the case for the defendant’s arraignment.
At Monday’s resumed hearing of the case, Ubani represented the defendant, while Mr Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) appeared for the prosecution.
Ubani informed the court that the session was meant for the defendant’s arraignment but noted that they had filed a notice of preliminary objection.
The judge then asked, “Where is the defendant?” In response, Ubani said that he had received a call from the defendant, who claimed to have had a serious accident that morning. He assured the court that the defendant would be available at the next hearing.
When the defence counsel sought to present his objection, the court declined to hear it, stating that it could only be entertained after the defendant appeared.
Justice Owoeye clarified that the court had not yet assumed jurisdiction over the case, as the defendant’s plea had not been taken.
In a brief ruling, the court confirmed that the previous bench warrant remains valid, as it has not been withdrawn.
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