Fresh Revelations as Jude Okoye’s Trial Resumes Over Alleged $1m Theft

The trial of Jude Chigozie Okoye, former manager of legendary Nigerian music duo P-Square, resumed on Friday at the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja, with new revelations emerging over company ownership and alleged diversion of funds.

Jude Okoye and his firm, Northside Music Limited, are facing a four-count charge filed by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of theft exceeding $1 million. The defendant has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

During the proceedings before Justice Rahman Oshodi, the prosecution’s first witness, Peter Obumuneme Okoye (Mr P), told the court that Jude Okoye’s wife owns 800,000 shares in Northside Music Limited. The revelation added a new layer to the long-running dispute over the ownership and control of P-Square’s business interests.

Under cross-examination by defence counsel Clement Onwuenwunor (SAN), Peter maintained that bank statements linked to Northside Music Limited reflected joint business accounts belonging to himself and his twin brother, Paul Okoye.

“These statements of account belong to me and my brother. We are P-Square. The company belongs to Peter and Paul. It was registered by him,” Peter told the court.

He further stated that he reported the matter to the EFCC after discovering that funds were allegedly being diverted. According to him, another company, Northside Entertainment, was also allegedly used to siphon funds meant for their joint entertainment business.

“My lord, we own an entertainment company together, and I discovered another company diverting our funds. I showed it to my brother,” he added.

Peter confirmed that he formally petitioned the EFCC through his lawyer and later gave a statement to investigators.

The defence attempted to tender documents purportedly attached to the original petition submitted to the EFCC. However, the prosecution objected, arguing that the documents were public records that failed to meet legal standards for admissibility.

Justice Oshodi upheld the objection, ruling that although the documents originated from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and were later kept by the EFCC, they did not satisfy the legal conditions for admission.

“I reject the documents and mark them as rejected,” the judge ruled.

The case has been adjourned to February 20 and 27, 2026, for continuation of the trial.

Opinion: A Painful Reminder of Business Risks in Family Partnerships

Beyond the courtroom drama, the Jude Okoye trial highlights a recurring challenge in Nigeria’s entertainment industry—the fragile intersection of family, fame, and business. P-Square’s story is not just about hit songs and sold-out arenas; it is also a cautionary tale about the importance of transparency, clear corporate structures, and professional governance.

That such a globally celebrated group has found itself embroiled in legal battles underscores how unresolved business arrangements can haunt even the most successful partnerships. While the court will determine guilt or innocence, the case already serves as a lesson for creatives: talent may build empires, but clarity and accountability sustain them.

For fans, the situation is heartbreaking. P-Square once symbolised unity, brotherhood, and African excellence. Seeing their legacy overshadowed by legal disputes reminds us that behind the fame are real people, complex relationships, and difficult decisions.

As the trial continues, many hope that justice—whatever form it takes—will not only resolve the allegations but also offer closure to a family whose music shaped a generation.