P-Square Legal Drama: Peter Okoye Confirms Receiving $800,000 in SACEM Royalties Exclusively for the Twins

LAGOS, NIGERIA— The high-stakes legal battle surrounding the defunct music empire P-Square has taken a dramatic turn. During court proceedings at the Federal High Court, singer Peter Okoye admitted under cross-examination that he collected over $800,000 in foreign music royalties from the French rights body SACEM without sharing the funds with his elder brother and former manager, Jude Okoye.

Testifying virtually before the court, Peter was questioned by defence counsel Clement Onwuewunor (SAN). He maintained that the substantial payout was meant solely for the performing artists of the group—himself and his twin brother, Paul Okoye. According to Peter, Jude Okoye held no direct employment contract with the group and was therefore excluded from the royalties.

Case Background & EFCC Charges

This testimony forms a crucial part of an ongoing, high-profile trial brought against Jude Okoye and his firm, Northside Music Limited, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

• The Charges: A seven-count charge involving allegations of N1.3 billion and $1 million fraud.

• The Plea: Jude Okoye has pleaded not guilty to all charges leveled against him.

• The Core Dispute: The trial hinges heavily on financial management, management contracts, and revenue distribution from the group’s active years.

Key Highlights of the Hearing

• The Admission: Peter Okoye confirmed receiving upwards of $800,000 in international royalties from SACEM.

• The Defense Argument: The singer asserted that Jude Okoye was strictly a manager, lacked a formal employment contract as part of P-Square, and was not entitled to the performance-based royalties.

• Next Steps: Legal analysts are watching closely to see how this testimony impacts the ongoing N1.3 billion EFCC case as hearings continue.

What are your thoughts on this latest development in the P-Square saga? Join the conversation by dropping a comment on our social media channels, and stay tuned to Urban Radio for further updates.