The drama surrounding the Okoye brothers has taken a legal twist as Jude Okoye, elder brother and former manager of the defunct music group P-Square, has been granted ₦100 million bail following allegations of fraud and money laundering.
Jude, who managed the iconic duo during their prime years, is facing charges from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly laundering a whopping ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59. The music executive pleaded not guilty to the charges when arraigned before Justice Alexander Owoeye at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos.
His lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, had initially requested that he be held in EFCC custody instead of a correctional facility — a motion fiercely opposed by the prosecution. However, the judge granted Jude bail on Monday, with strict conditions including two sureties with landed properties worth ₦100 million each in Lagos. The court will also verify the documents, and Okoye is restricted from leaving Nigeriawithout prior approval.
The high-profile trial is set to begin on April 14, 2025.
This latest scandal adds fuel to the long-standing Okoye family feud that began in 2017 when P-Square dramatically split. Though the brothers reconciled in 2021, their peace didn’t last long. Last year, Paul Okoye accused Peter of involving the EFCC in their financial dispute — a claim Peter denied, instead alleging that Jude misappropriated millions of dollars into a secret company.
With family drama, billions at stake, and a court battle looming, all eyes are on Jude Okoye as the Okoye brothers’ messy saga plays out in the public eye.
