Omanghana
Singer Peter Okoye, one half of the defunct Nigerian music duo P-Square, has told a Federal High Court in Lagos that he received more than $800,000 in royalties from French music rights organization SACEM for songs recorded by the group.
Okoye made the disclosure while testifying virtually before Justice Alexander Owoeye during the ongoing legal proceedings involving his elder brother and former P-Square manager, Jude Okoye.
Peter was cross-examined by Clement Onwuewunor, SAN, counsel to Jude, during the proceedings.
Peter: The Money Belonged to the Artists
During the cross-examination, Peter confirmed that SACEM paid royalties relating to 10 P-Square songs.
When questioned about claims that he received approximately $800,000 from SACEM between 2016 and 2026, Peter acknowledged receiving the funds.
He, however, maintained that the money belonged to the artists himself and his twin brother, Paul Okoye — and said Jude did not receive any portion of the payments.
Asked whether he informed Jude about the royalties, Peter responded: “No, the money was for the artists.”
Peter also acknowledged that he had previously paid Jude 25 per cent of his SACEM share, but said that arrangement did not continue after the royalties were reconciled in 2022.
Dispute Over Jude’s Role
The court also heard testimony concerning Jude’s role in P-Square’s affairs and the SACEM agreement.
Peter acknowledged that Jude had signed the SACEM contract on behalf of what he described as “the team.” However, he maintained that Jude was not a member of P-Square.
When asked directly whether Jude was part of the music duo, Peter replied: “Jude is not part of P-Square.”
He further told the court that he and Paul wrote, composed and produced P-Square’s songs, although he acknowledged that Jude directed some of the group’s music videos.
Peter also said he did not have an employment agreement with Jude, explaining that their business arrangement operated through Northside Entertainment Limited.
Jude Faces EFCC Charges
The testimony forms part of the ongoing case involving Jude Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Jude and the company on a seven-count charge involving allegations of financial offences totaling about ₦1.3 billion and $1 million.
Jude has pleaded not guilty to the charges. The allegations remain before the court and have not been established as proven facts.
Jude’s case also previously involved allegations concerning the handling of P-Square’s financial and royalty records, which have become a central part of the dispute between the brothers.
Case Adjourned
Following the latest proceedings, the court adjourned further hearing in the matter to December 8 and 9, 2026.
The latest testimony has brought renewed attention to the financial disagreements surrounding P-Square’s music catalogue, royalties and the respective roles of Peter, Paul and Jude Okoye in the group’s business affairs.
Source: Omanghana
