The Rise and Rift of P-Square
P-Square, consisting of twin brothers Peter and Paul Okoye, emerged in 1997 and quickly rose to fame with hits like “Bizzy Body” and “Personally.” Managed by their elder brother Jude under Northside Entertainment, the group achieved international success. However, internal disagreements over financial management and creative control led to their disbandment in 2017. A brief reunion occurred in 2021, but underlying tensions persisted, particularly concerning the management of the group’s finances.
Allegations Against Jude Okoye
Peter Okoye has accused Jude of mismanaging funds and withholding financial information related to P-Square’s earnings. He claims that Jude, as the sole signatory to the group’s bank accounts, diverted funds and failed to provide transparency regarding income from music royalties and other sources. Peter’s concerns intensified upon discovering the existence of Northside Music Limited, a company allegedly used to channel funds without his knowledge.
Legal Proceedings
In February 2025, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Jude Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited, on a seven-count charge of money laundering and fraud totaling ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59. One of the charges involves the acquisition of a property in Ikoyi, Lagos, worth ₦850 million, allegedly purchased with proceeds from unlawful activities. Jude pleaded not guilty to all charges and was granted bail set at ₦100 million, with the trial scheduled to commence on April 14, 2025 citeturn0search1turn0search6.
Family Dynamics and Public Reactions
The legal battle has further strained the relationship between the Okoye brothers. Paul Okoye has publicly sided with Jude, accusing Peter of orchestrating the legal action and asserting that all parties share responsibility for the alleged financial discrepancies. This public feud has captivated fans and highlighted the challenges of intertwining family and business.
Implications for the Nigerian Music Industry
This case underscores the importance of financial transparency and proper management within the entertainment sector. It serves as a cautionary tale for artists and managers alike, emphasizing the need for clear contractual agreements and accountability to prevent similar disputes.
Conclusion
The unfolding legal proceedings between Peter and Jude Okoye reveal the complexities of financial management in the music industry and the potential pitfalls of mixing family with business. As the trial progresses, it will undoubtedly shed more light on the intricacies of the case and its broader implications for the entertainment world.
- P-Square’s Musical Journey
- Understanding Music Royalties
- EFCC Official Statement on Jude Okoye’s Arraignment
- Vanguard News on P-Square Family Feud
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