The long-running dispute surrounding the Okoye brothers has taken another turn after P-Square singer Peter Okoye testified in court about more than $800,000 in music royalties connected to the duo’s songs.
Peter, who is one half of the defunct P-Square group, made the disclosure while testifying virtually before the Federal High Court in Lagos during the ongoing case involving his elder brother, Jude Okoye, and Northside Music Limited.
Peter Speaks on the $800,000 Royalties
During cross-examination by Jude’s lawyer, Clement Onwuewunor, SAN, Peter confirmed that he received approximately $800,000 in royalties from SACEM, the French organisation responsible for collecting and distributing royalties for music creators and publishers.
The payments covered P-Square musical works over a period stretching from 2016 to 2026.
When asked whether he gave Jude any portion of the money, Peter said he did not. He maintained that the royalties were intended for the artistes, himself and his twin brother Paul Okoye.
Peter also said he did not inform Jude about the payments, maintaining that the money was for the artistes.
Dispute Over Jude’s Role
The courtroom exchange also returned to questions about Jude Okoye’s involvement in P-Square’s business and music catalogue.
Peter acknowledged that Jude signed the SACEM contract but maintained that it was signed on behalf of “the team.” He disputed Jude’s entitlement to the royalties and said Jude was not a member of P-Square.
However, Peter acknowledged Jude’s contribution to the group, including directing some of P-Square’s music videos.
He also told the court that he and Paul composed, wrote and produced the group’s songs.
Peter Addresses Royalty Records
Another part of the testimony focused on royalty records Jude provided to Peter.
Peter confirmed receiving backend royalty records covering 2016 to 2022, including records connected to Lex Records. He explained that the documents were requested because some people had shown interest in purchasing the P-Square music catalogue.
There was disagreement over when Peter initially requested the records. Jude’s lawyer said the request was made on October 16, 2022, with the documents supplied six days later. Peter maintained that he had made an earlier request but admitted he could not provide a message, email or other document proving it.
Court Case Continues
Jude Okoye and Northside Music Limited are facing a seven-count case brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) involving allegations of ₦1.3 billion and $1 million fraud.
Jude has pleaded not guilty to the allegations, which remain before the court.
The latest testimony therefore forms part of an ongoing legal process, rather than a final determination of the allegations against Jude. Further hearing in the matter has been adjourned until December 8 and 9, 2026.
The latest courtroom development adds another layer to the complicated financial and family dispute surrounding one of Nigeria’s most recognised music groups. As proceedings continue, attention remains on the royalty records, management arrangements and competing claims surrounding P-Square’s music catalogue.