In a dramatic turn of events, Peter Okoye, one half of the defunct music duo P-Square, has admitted before a Federal High Court in Lagos that his elder brother, Jude Okoye, sent him six years of the group's royalty records. The records, covering 2016 to 2022, were provided by Jude in response to a request made by Peter in 2022. This admission contradicts Peter's earlier claim that it took Jude more than three months to provide the backend royalty records.
Under cross-examination by counsel to Jude, Clement Onwuewunor, SAN, Peter was confronted with evidence that he requested the records on October 16, 2022, and that Jude obtained and sent them to him six days later, on October 22. Peter disagreed, insisting that he had made the request earlier in 2022. However, when asked to produce a text message, email or other document showing that he had made the request before October 16, 2022, Peter admitted that he had no such evidence.
Peter confirmed that he received the royalty report sent by Jude and that it covered royalties from 2016 to 2022, including records relating to Lex Records. He explained that the records were requested because some persons were interested in buying the P-Square music catalogue. This development is part of an ongoing trial of Jude and his company, Northside Music Limited, over alleged financial crimes.
The trial, brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), involves a seven-count charge of alleged fraud of N1.3 billion and $1 million. Jude has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Peter's testimony is a significant twist in the case, which has been ongoing for some time. The EFCC is investigating Jude and Northside Music Limited over allegations of financial impropriety.
Peter also acknowledged that Jude had forwarded the account information to him in 2022 and that the EFCC was aware that the report had been sent to him. The cross-examination then turned to royalties paid by French music-rights organisation, SACEM, for P-Square's musical works. Peter admitted receiving approximately $800,000 in SACEM royalties between 2016 and 2026.
However, Peter claimed that he did not give Jude any share of the money, stating that the payments belonged to him and his twin brother, Paul Okoye. He disputed Jude's entitlement to the SACEM royalties, despite acknowledging that the SACEM contract was signed by Jude. Peter maintained that Jude was not part of P-Square, although he acknowledged that Jude directed some of the group's music videos.
The case continues with further hearings, as the court seeks to unravel the complex web of financial transactions and agreements between the Okoye brothers and their company, Northside Music Limited. Peter's testimony has provided significant insight into the financial dealings of P-Square and the role of Jude Okoye in the management of the group's music catalogue.
Key points
- Peter Okoye admits receiving 6 years of P-Square royalty records from Jude Okoye.
- Peter disputes Jude's entitlement to SACEM royalties, claiming they belong to him and his brother Paul.
- The trial of Jude Okoye and Northside Music Limited continues over alleged financial crimes.
