Singer Peter Okoye, one half of the defunct music group P-Square, has testified in a Federal High Court in Lagos that he received over $800,000 in royalties from the group’s musical works. He disclosed this during cross-examination by Mr. Clement Onwuewunor, counsel to his elder brother, Jude Okoye. The case involves allegations of fraud against Jude and his company, Northside Music Limited.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Jude and the company on a seven-count charge bordering on alleged N1.3 billion and $1 million fraud. Peter confirmed receiving the royalties from Société des Auteurs, Compositeurs et Éditeurs de Musique (SACEM), a French organisation that collects and distributes royalties to music creators and publishers. He stated that the payments were meant for the artists.
When asked whether he shared any of the funds with Jude, Peter responded in the negative, adding that he did not inform Jude about the payments. He admitted that he had previously paid a quarter of his SACEM earnings to Jude but denied any obligation to continue such payments, insisting that Jude was not entitled to the royalties. Peter stated that Jude is not part of P-Square.
Peter further told the court that although the SACEM contract was signed by Jude, it was executed on behalf of “the team,” which he said did not include Jude as a member. He acknowledged that Jude contributed to the group’s success by directing some of their music videos. Peter and his twin brother, Paul, composed, wrote, and produced all songs performed by the group.
On the issue of royalty records, Peter confirmed that Jude provided him with backend royalty reports in 2022 covering the period from 2016 to 2022, including records linked to Lex Records. He explained that his request for the documents was prompted by interest from potential buyers of the P-Square music catalogue. However, a disagreement arose over when the request was made.
Peter also confirmed that the EFCC was aware that the royalty report had been forwarded to him and that he had received the account details from Jude. Despite this, he maintained that royalties paid through SACEM belonged solely to him and his twin brother. The court also heard that Peter had no direct employment contract with Jude, stating that any managerial arrangement was through Northside Entertainment Limited.
Justice Owoeye adjourned further hearing in the matter to December 8 and 9, 2026. The case is ongoing, with Jude contesting claims relating to his role and entitlements in the group.
Key points
- Peter Okoye received $800,000 in royalties but denied remitting any to Jude.
- Jude provided Peter with backend royalty reports covering 2016 to 2022.
- Peter claims royalties paid through SACEM belonged solely to him and his twin brother.
