Singer Peter Okoye has told the Federal High Court in Lagos that he received more than $800,000 in royalties from French music rights organization SACEM for P-Square songs.
Peter made the disclosure on Monday, September 21, 2026, while testifying virtually before Justice Alexander Owoeye. He was cross-examined by Clement Onwuewunor, SAN, counsel to his elder brother, Jude Okoye.
Jude and his company, Northside Music Limited, are facing a seven-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged fraud involving N1.3 billion and $1 million. Jude has pleaded not guilty.
During the hearing, Peter was questioned about his claim that Jude delayed for more than three months in providing P-Square’s royalty records after a request in 2022.
Counsel told the court that the request was made on October 16, 2022, and that Jude sent the records six days later. Peter maintained that he had requested them earlier but admitted he had no message, email, or other evidence to support the claim.
He confirmed receiving records covering royalties from 2016 to 2022, including payments linked to Lex Records. He said he requested the documents because some people were interested in buying P-Square’s music catalogue.
The cross-examination later focused on SACEM payments. Peter confirmed receiving approximately $800,000 from the organization between 2016 and 2026 but said none of the money was given to Jude.
Peter maintained that the royalties belonged to him and his twin brother, Paul Okoye, as the artists behind the songs.
Asked whether he informed Jude about the payments, Peter said the money was for the artistes. He also acknowledged that he had previously paid Jude 25 percent of his SACEM share but disputed any continued entitlement after a 2022 reconciliation.
Peter further disputed Jude’s role in P-Square, saying there was no employment agreement between them and that their business arrangement was through Northside Entertainment Limited.
Asked whether Jude was a member of P-Square, Peter replied, “Jude is not part of P-Square.”
He maintained that he and Paul wrote, composed, and produced the group’s songs, while acknowledging that Jude directed some of their music videos.
The court adjourned further hearing in the case until December 8 and 9, 2026.
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