Peter Okoye Admits Receiving $800,000 P-Square Royalties in Court
Lagos, Nigeria — Peter Okoye of the defunct music duo P-Square has admitted in court that he received more than $800,000 in royalties from French music rights organisation SACEM for songs recorded by the group. The admission came during cross-examination at the Federal High Court in Lagos, where his brother Jude Okoye faces fraud charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
This is the kind of moment that reminds us why African entertainment stories matter. When our stars go to court, the whole continent leans in. And this one has everything: family drama, big money, and the fight for control of a legacy that defined an era of Afrobeats.
What Did Peter Okoye Admit in Court?
Peter, testifying virtually before Justice Alexander Owoeye, confirmed he received approximately $800,000 from SACEM between 2016 and 2026. SACEM is the French organisation that collects and distributes royalties to songwriters, composers, and publishers.
But here's where it gets interesting. Peter insisted the money was for the artists, not for Jude, who served as P-Square's manager. When asked if he informed Jude about the payments, Peter's answer was direct: “No, the money was for the artists.”
Jude Okoye's Fraud Case: What Are the Charges?
Jude Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited, are facing a seven-count charge involving alleged N1.3 billion and $1 million fraud. He has pleaded not guilty. The case has already drawn massive attention across Nigeria, and this latest testimony adds another layer to the saga.
Peter Okoye vs Jude Okoye: The Royalty Dispute Explained
The tension between the brothers has been brewing for years. Peter claimed Jude took more than three months to provide P-Square's backend royalty records after he requested them in 2022. But Jude's counsel, Clement Onwuewunor, SAN, pushed back, showing that the request was made on October 16, 2022, and Jude forwarded the records just six days later.
Peter disagreed, insisting he made the request earlier. But when asked to produce evidence, he admitted: “No. I don't have any and I can't recall.”
Who Owns P-Square's Music Legacy?
Here's the heart of the matter. Peter maintained that Jude is not part of P-Square. He said all P-Square songs were composed, written, and produced by him and his twin brother Paul. However, he acknowledged that Jude directed some of the group's music videos.
When counsel pointed out that the SACEM contract was signed by Jude, not Peter or Paul, Peter held his ground, saying it was signed by “the team” and that Jude was not part of that team.
Peter also confirmed he previously paid Jude a quarter of his SACEM share but denied that Jude demanded quarterly payments after the 2022 reconciliation.
What Happens Next in the P-Square Court Case?
The court has adjourned further hearing to December 8 and 9, 2026. Until then, the Okoye brothers' legal battle continues to unfold in full view of the public.
For us at Najia Pulse, this story is bigger than just a family feud. It's about the business of African music, the protection of creative legacies, and the accountability that comes with managing other people's art. When our artists build global brands, the world watches how we handle the business side. Let's get it right.
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