Peter Okoye Admits Withholding $800,000 Psquare Royalties From Jude

Singer Peter Okoye has admitted before a Federal High Court in Lagos that he received over $800,000 in music royalties from French rights body SACEM but did not share the proceeds with his elder brother, Jude Okoye.

Testifying virtually during cross-examination by defence counsel Clement Onwuewunor (SAN), Peter stated that the money was intended solely for the performing artists, himself and his twin brother, Paul Okoye. He argued that Jude held no direct employment contract with the group and was not part of Psquare.

The testimony forms part of the ongoing trial in which Jude Okoye and his firm, Northside Music Limited, face a seven-count charge involving N1.3 billion and $1 million in fraud brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Jude has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

During questioning, Peter confirmed receiving Psquare royalty reports covering 2016 through 2022 from Jude following requests linked to potential buyers of the group’s music catalogue. While acknowledging that Jude directed several music videos, Peter maintained that all group songs were composed and produced strictly by himself and Paul.