After spending over two months in detention at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre, Jude Okoye, former manager and elder brother of the defunct music duo P-Square, has finally regained his freedom. His release follows intense legal battles with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of theft, criminal conversion, and money laundering involving over ₦1.38 billion.
Jude was released on April 23, 2025, and reunited with his family in a low-key celebration. His brother, Paul Okoye (Rudeboy), confirmed the news via Instagram, sharing emotional footage of Jude arriving home and embracing his wife and children. The occasion also coincided with Jude’s birthday, making the reunion even more significant.
The Legal Battle
Jude’s troubles began in March 2025, when he was arraigned before two separate courts in Lagos on charges of theft and money laundering. The EFCC accused him of dishonestly converting $767,544.15 in digital music royalties meant for his younger brother, Peter Okoye (Mr P).
Peter, who filed the petition against Jude, testified before the court on April 14, alleging that Jude had registered their record label, Northside Music Ltd, in his wife’s name and manipulated backend systems to hide the true value of their music royalties. He claimed that monthly payouts from Lex Records fell from $8,000 to just $500 between 2016 and 2021, leaving him financially excluded from the business he helped build.
Family Feud Intensifies
The case has further deepened the long-standing rift between the Okoye brothers. Paul publicly blamed Peter for Jude’s incarceration, stating, “Let’s call a spade a spade… Peter is doing this and putting Jude in prison.” Peter, on the other hand, defended his actions, saying he had remained silent for over 20 years, but could no longer tolerate financial betrayal masked as family loyalty.
What’s Next?
Although Jude is now free, his legal battles are far from over. His next court appearance in the money laundering trial is scheduled for May 23, while the theft case resumes on June 4, when Peter is expected to return for cross-examination.
As the saga unfolds, fans and industry insiders continue to speculate on the future of the Okoye brothers, whose P-Square legacy remains one of Nigeria’s most iconic musical success stories.
