- EeZee Conceptz CEO Claims $625,000 Already Paid to Gospel Star
- Dispute Highlights Rift Between Mercy Chinwo and Former Manager Over Royalties and Contracts
Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, the former manager of popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, has denied allegations of diverting $345,000 from the artist. His rebuttal comes after a Federal High Court in Lagos issued a warrant for his arrest following a motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC’s case is based on a petition by Chinwo, who accused Onyedikachukwu of withholding royalties from her digital platforms and event earnings without her consent or remittance.
Taking to Instagram, Onyedikachukwu dismissed the accusations as false and claimed that Chinwo has received over $625,000 from EeZee Conceptz Global, the record label he founded.
“Despite offering a 50/50 gross earnings ratio, you are trying to weaponize law enforcement and religious organizations to take over a catalogue you did not spend a single Naira on,” Onyedikachukwu wrote. “You’ve received over $625,000, yet you continue spreading misinformation to paint yourself as a victim.”
Onyedikachukwu also accused Chinwo, who began her career as a backup vocalist with EeZee Conceptz, of breaching their contract by failing to deliver a third album and withholding funds generated from her content and events. He claimed to have housed her and supported her career financially, adding that he made repeated efforts to reconcile their differences, including proposing an independent audit.
“I invested my blood, sweat, and hard-earned money into you. When you breached our contract, I didn’t attack you. Instead, I suggested reconciliation and transparency. Yet, you resort to manipulating institutions to bully me,” he stated.
The former manager also revealed that he was detained by the EFCC for nine days last year and allegedly forced to pay $274,000 under duress. He criticized Chinwo for refusing to follow the Multidoor resolution process outlined in their agreement.
“If your hands are clean, why avoid the resolution process? You deny the contract when it holds you accountable but cite it when it benefits you,” Onyedikachukwu added.
He further claimed that Chinwo, the Best Gospel Artiste at the 2018 Climax Awards, had consistently received quarterly royalties under their 50/50 revenue-sharing agreement. He described her current actions as driven by greed and betrayal, accusing her of attempting to claim ownership of the label-funded catalogue.
“Post your bank statements and songs recorded three years before and after you signed with EeZee Conceptz. Let the public see the truth,” Onyedikachukwu challenged.
In closing, Onyedikachukwu affirmed his commitment to pursuing justice through lawful channels while expressing gratitude to those supporting him through prayers. He quoted Proverbs 17:13, emphasizing his faith in God to defend his reputation.
As of press time, Mercy Chinwo has not publicly responded to his allegations.
