A major controversy is shaking up Nigeria’s music industry: Peter Okoye, one half of the iconic duo P-Square, has leveled serious allegations against his older brother and former manager, Jude Okoye, accusing him of fraud estimated at 1.38 billion naira. The case is currently before the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, and also involves Northside Music Limited, a company co-founded by Jude.
According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Jude is facing seven charges, including money laundering. One of the main accusations concerns the acquisition of a luxury property in Ikoyi, valued at 850 million naira, allegedly purchased with funds from illegal activities. Jude has pleaded not guilty.
Testifying in court, Peter Okoye revealed a series of internal tensions that plagued the group, particularly Jude’s exclusive control over the group’s finances, as he was the sole signatory on their bank accounts. He stated that this arrangement continued even after P-Square’s split in 2017 and their reunion in 2021.
Peter also denounced a lack of transparency in managing income from album sales and royalties, citing alleged manipulation of financial records and concealment of key information—especially regarding Northside Music Limited, whose existence he only learned of much later.
He explained that his twin brother, Paul, appeared largely uninvolved in financial matters and consistently referred him to Jude. After several failed attempts at mediation, Peter decided to take legal action and has since appointed a new team to manage his music rights.
His testimony has shed light on the turbulent behind-the-scenes dynamics of one of Africa’s most legendary music groups, exposing a conflict that intertwines family, finances, and fame. The trial is ongoing.