LAGOS NIGERIA: The ongoing dispute between renowned gospel artist Mercy Chinwo and her former manager, Ezekiel ThankGod (popularly known as Eezeetee), has garnered significant public attention.
The conflict centers on allegations of financial mismanagement, contractual breaches, and defamation.
Initiation of Legal Proceedings
Contrary to widespread reports, Mercy Chinwo did not initiate legal action against Ezekiel ThankGod. In a statement released on January 25, 2025, she clarified that it was Ezekiel who first approached the court. She emphasized that she had not filed any lawsuit regarding her music catalogue.
EFCC’s Involvement and Court Proceedings
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) became involved following allegations that Ezekiel misappropriated funds by failing to remit Chinwo’s share of earnings. He is accused of retaining $260,494 in the EEZEE GLOBAL MINISTRY Zenith Bank account, funds that allegedly belong to Mercy Chinwo and fellow gospel artist Judith Kanayo (Judikay). Ezekiel faces a three-count charge related to money laundering and diversion of funds. The Federal High Court in Lagos has scheduled his arraignment for February 14, 2025.
Mercy Chinwo’s Response
In a heartfelt video shared on social media, Mercy Chinwo accused Ezekiel of sponsoring false rumors about her family. She alleged that he paid bloggers to spread misinformation, including claims questioning the paternity of her newborn son. Chinwo described her relationship with Ezekiel as toxic and controlling, stating that his actions forced her to relocate from Port Harcourt to Lagos.
Industry Reactions and Calls for Mediation
The dispute has elicited reactions from industry stakeholders. Efe Omorogbe, a renowned talent manager, emphasized the importance of respecting contractual agreements and resolving disputes through negotiation rather than coercion. He highlighted that master rights typically belong to record labels and can only be transferred through a negotiated buyout.
Additionally, there have been appeals for organizations like the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to mediate in the dispute, given the prominent positions of the individuals involved in the gospel music community.
Watch Video Below:
@ghanaregions Mercy Chinwo and Ezekiel ThankGod Full Story. Mercy Chinwo Finally Responded to Eezeetee. The dispute between Mercy Chinwo, JudiKay and EeZee Conceptz Global has sparked significant public interest. #MercyChinwo #ezeeconceptz #Judikay #Nigeria #Music #GhanaRegion #foryou #MultiDebrichGroup ♬ original sound – Ghana Regions
Finally, as the legal proceedings progress, the gospel music community and the public await further developments. The situation underscores the complexities that can arise in professional relationships within the music industry, highlighting the need for clear contracts, transparent dealings, and effective conflict resolution mechanisms.
For more insights into EeZee Conceptz’s perspective on the allegations, you can watch their official response below:
@ghanaregions Full Story of Nigerian Gospel Singer Mercy Chinwo and Ex-Manager Ezekiel ThankGod. Mercy Chinwo responded to Eezeetee. The dispute between Mercy Chinwo, JudiKay and EeZee Conceptz Global has sparked public interest and more. #MercyChinwo #ezeeconceptz #Judikay #Nigeria #Music #GhanaRegion #foryou #MultiDebrichGroup ♬ original sound – Ghana Regions
