•Calls for PFN, Christian Elders to Mediate
The Nigerian Christian Youth Network (NCYN) has condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for what it describes as unwarranted interference in the contractual dispute between music producer Ezekiel Onyedikachi, popularly known as EeZee Tee, and gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Michael Ekwere, the group expressed concerns over the EFCC’s involvement, insisting that the matter is a civil dispute that should not fall under the commission’s jurisdiction.
It urged the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and other Christian leaders to intervene and help resolve the issue amicably.
NCYN: This is a Civil, Not Criminal Matter
According to NCYN’s findings, the disagreement between EeZee Tee and Mercy Chinwo revolves around contractual obligations and does not constitute an economic or financial crime that warrants the EFCC’s intervention.
The group criticized the commission for diverting its focus from tackling large-scale corruption in Nigeria to pursuing what should have been settled in a civil court.
“As a faith-based organization, we are deeply concerned about the dispute between EeZee Tee and Mercy Chinwo.
“They are both respected members of the Christian community, and the controversy has sparked debates in both Christian and secular circles.
“However, from all indications, this is nothing more than a contractual disagreement,” the statement read.
NCYN explained that Mercy Chinwo accused EeZee Conceptz, owned by EeZee Tee, of withholding her earnings, while the label countered that Chinwo failed to remit the company’s share of revenue from her public engagements.
“This is a straightforward contractual dispute that should be resolved in a civil court.
“However, we are alarmed that the EFCC has allowed itself to be used as an instrument of intimidation in this case,” the group added.
Allegations of EFCC Bias and Harassment
The NCYN further alleged that the EFCC had acted beyond its legal mandate, freezing EeZee Tee’s domiciliary account last year without a court order, detaining him for nine days in Ilorin, Kwara State, and compelling him to pay Mercy Chinwo $274,000.
The group noted that when EeZee Tee challenged his detention through a fundamental rights enforcement suit, the EFCC responded by securing an arrest warrant from another court.
“In the three-count charge before the Federal High Court, Lagos, the EFCC is accusing EeZee Tee of ‘fraudulent conversion’ of earnings belonging to Mercy Chinwo and gospel artist Judikay.
“From our findings, the EFCC appears to be acting on a script, either for personal or pecuniary interests,” the statement alleged.
Calls for Action and Mediation
NCYN urged the EFCC chairman to ensure that the commission does not allow itself to be used as a tool for intimidation in civil disputes.
“We see no reason why the EFCC should be involved in harassing, intimidating, and embarrassing individuals in what is clearly a civil matter,” it stated.
The group also called on the Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to review this case and others where the EFCC has been accused of overreach.
Finally, NCYN appealed to the PFN and other Christian elders to intervene, warning that the dispute could have lasting negative effects on the Christian music industry.
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