“The Money Was for the Artistes” Inside Peter Okoye’s Court Testimony Over $800k P-Square Royalties

The legal saga surrounding iconic Nigerian music duo P-Square took another dramatic turn in court as Peter Okoye took the stand to clarify the distribution of $800,000 in musical royalties.

Testifying virtually before Justice Alexander Owoeye at the Federal High Court in Lagos, Peter addressed cross-examination questions regarding financial records, backend royalties, and the overall structure of the group.

  Peter Okoye confirmed receiving about $800,000 from SACEM for P-Square’s music, stating his elder brother, Jude Okoye, received no share and was not informed because "the money was for the artistes."

 

Peter testified that Jude directed music videos but was not a member of P-Square, emphasizing that writing, composing, and producing belonged strictly to him and his twin brother, Paul.

 

The testimony took place during the trial of Jude Okoye and Northside Music Limited over an alleged ₦1.3 billion and $1 million fraud.

 

Defense counsel questioned Peter on alleged delays in receiving royalty records; Peter acknowledged he lacked proof of earlier requests prior to October 2022.

 

Proceedings at the Lagos Federal High Court have been adjourned to December 8–9, 2026.