Nigerian gospel singer Mercy Chinwo has accused her former manager, Ezekiel Onyedikachi, popularly known as EeZee Tee, of engaging in manipulative practices that included sabotaging her ministry and spreading false rumors about her son’s paternity. The allegations have stirred significant discussion both within and outside the music industry.
Sabotage Claims Against Ministry
According to Mercy Chinwo, her relationship with EeZee Tee took a drastic turn for the worse in 2019 after she refused to extend her initial five-year contract to twelve years. In an incident recounted by Chinwo, she was scheduled to minister at Rev. Felix Omobude’s Gospel Light International Ministries in 2021, but her former management allegedly canceled her participation without her knowledge. Determined to honor her commitment, she still made her way to the church, only to find upon arrival at the airport that a medical team was waiting for her. They had been misinformed that she was battling a terminal illness, an act she alleges was meant to prevent her from ministering. This incident, she claims, was part of a broader pattern of intimidation and bullying by her former management, aimed at isolating her from her audience and ministry opportunities.
Alleged Paternity Rumors
Adding to the controversy, Mercy Chinwo has also accused EeZee Tee of orchestrating false rumors concerning the paternity of her son. In an emotional video, she stated that EeZee Tee’s dislike for her collaboration with fellow gospel artist Nathaniel Bassey led him to pay bloggers to spread misinformation that Bassey was the father of her child. This claim has not only affected her personal life but also her public image and ministry. Chinwo emphasized that these actions were retaliatory, stemming from her decision not to extend her contract with EeZee Conceptz.
Legal and Public Response
The fallout from these allegations has seen legal battles, with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) initially issuing an arrest warrant for EeZee Tee over the alleged mismanagement of $345,000 in royalties. However, the warrant was later vacated by the Federal High Court in Lagos following a motion by EeZee Tee’s counsel, indicating a complex legal tussle.
EeZee Tee has responded to these accusations by defending his contributions to Mercy Chinwo’s career, stating he built a platform that gave her opportunities she could never have imagined. He also refuted the financial misconduct claims, asserting that Chinwo had received a substantial amount during her tenure with EeZee Conceptz and accused her of breaching their contract by not delivering a third album.
This unfolding saga between Mercy Chinwo and Ezekiel Onyedikachi sheds light on the darker side of the music industry, where personal vendettas and professional disagreements can lead to public scandals. As both sides present their narratives, the gospel community and fans are left to discern the truth amidst the allegations. The impact of these revelations on Chinwo’s ministry, her personal life, and her relationship with the public remains to be seen, as does the outcome of any ongoing legal proceedings.
The music industry, particularly in Nigeria, continues to grapple with issues of management ethics, artist rights, and the personal toll such disputes can take on individuals involved. This case serves as a poignant reminder of the need for transparent, fair dealings in all artistic collaborations.
