The dispute involving former P-Square members Peter Okoye and Jude Okoye over music royalties continued at the Federal High Court in Lagos.
Testifying virtually, Peter told Justice Alexander Owoeye that he received more than $800,000 from SACEM in royalties connected to songs recorded by P-Square.
He gave the evidence while being cross-examined by Jude’s lawyer, Clement Onwuewunor, SAN.
Court Hears Details of Royalty Payments
Peter said the SACEM payments were related to 10 P-Square songs.
He maintained that the royalties belonged to him and his twin brother, Paul Okoye, and rejected Jude’s claim to part of the proceeds.
Peter acknowledged that he had received more than $800,000 in SACEM payments.
However, he insisted that Jude did not receive any money from those payments.
He also said he did not inform Jude about the amount because, according to him, “the money was for the artists.”
Dispute Over 2022 Records
The court also heard evidence concerning royalty statements Peter requested in 2022.
Peter had previously said Jude took more than three months to provide the records.
During cross-examination, however, Jude’s counsel told him that the request was made on October 16, 2022, while the records were sent six days later.
Peter maintained that he had made the request earlier.
But when asked whether he had a message, email or other document proving that an earlier request was made, he said he did not have one and could not remember.
He nevertheless confirmed receiving the royalty statement.
According to Peter, the statement covered payments from 2016 to 2022, including royalties connected to Lex Records.
Jude’s Role Questioned
Peter was also questioned about Jude’s role in P-Square’s affairs.
He said Jude signed the SACEM agreement but described the agreement as having been signed by “the team.”
Peter insisted that Jude was not a member of P-Square.
He also said there was no employment agreement between them and explained that their business arrangement operated through Northside Entertainment Limited.
According to Peter, he and Paul wrote, composed and produced P-Square’s songs.
He acknowledged, however, that Jude directed some of the group’s music videos.
Peter’s Previous Payments to Jude
Peter told the court that he had previously given Jude 25 per cent of his SACEM earnings.
He denied that Jude later demanded quarterly payments after the royalty accounts were reconciled in 2022.
Peter also said he sought the royalty records partly because some people were interested in purchasing the P-Square music catalogue.
Case Continues
Jude Okoye and Northside Music Limited are facing a seven-count EFCC charge involving alleged fraud of N1.3 billion and $1 million.
Jude has pleaded not guilty.
The court has adjourned the matter until December 8 and 9, 2026, when further proceedings are expected to continue.
