Jude Okoye, former manager of the defunct music duo P-Square and elder brother to Peter and Paul Okoye, has been released from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after spending over two months in detention. His release comes after fulfilling bail conditions related to an ongoing trial over alleged money laundering and embezzlement of ₦1.38 billion.
Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited, were arraigned before the Federal High Court in Lagos on February 26, 2025, facing a seven-count charge involving the laundering of ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail set at ₦100 million.
On March 3, the EFCC filed an additional four-count charge, accusing Okoye of diverting music royalties meant for his brothers, including funds totaling $767,544.15, £34,537.59, $133,566.49, and $118,652.20. For these fresh charges, he was granted another bail of ₦50 million, which he had been unable to meet until recently.
Paul Okoye, popularly known as Rudeboy, confirmed his brother’s release on Wednesday evening through Instagram, sharing videos of Jude reuniting with his family. In his post, Paul wrote, “Jude is finally out after 2 months +… All their efforts to frustrate his bail have finally collapsed. Welcome home brother @judeengees And happy birthday.”
The case has highlighted internal family tensions, with Peter Okoye, also known as Mr. P, testifying against Jude in court. Peter alleged that Jude secretly registered a new company in his wife’s name and used it to divert royalties that rightfully belonged to P-Square.
The court has adjourned the case to June 4, 2025, for cross-examination.
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