- Jude Okoye, former manager and elder brother of P-Square, was granted bail of ₦100 million by the Lagos federal high court.
- He faces fraud charges from the EFCC, including allegations of laundering ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59.
- Bail conditions require two sureties with Lagos properties valued at ₦100 million each, with the trial set to begin on April 14, 2025.
Jude Okoye, the elder brother and former manager of the disbanded music group P-Square, has been released on bail set at ₦100 million as he prepares to face fraud charges.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged Okoye with laundering ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59.
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Okoye, who pleaded not guilty, was initially held at the Ikoyi Correctional Facility after Judge Alexander Owoeye of the federal high court in Ikoyi, Lagos, ordered his detention. His attorney, Inibehe Effiong, had requested that he remain in the custody of the EFCC until his hearing—a motion that the prosecution, represented by Larry Peters Aso, opposed.
During Friday’s proceedings, the defense submitted a bail application, though the prosecution argued through an affidavit that Okoye might flee and tamper with witnesses. The judge agreed to review the bail request and granted bail on Monday.
Under Judge Owoeye’s conditions, Okoye must provide two sureties, each owning a property in Lagos valued at ₦100 million, with the court verifying the necessary documentation. Additionally, he is not allowed to leave the country without prior approval, and he will remain in custody until all bail conditions are met. The trial is scheduled to begin on April 14, 2025.
The controversy dates back to 2017, when a dispute between twin brothers Paul and Peter Okoye led to the breakup of P-Square, as both opted to pursue solo careers. The rift reportedly stemmed from disagreements over the role of their elder brother, Jude, who had managed the group.
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Although the twins briefly reconciled in November 2021, the reunion was short-lived. In August 2024, Paul alleged that Peter had orchestrated his arrest by the anti-corruption agency.
In response, Peter denied the claim and accused Jude of misappropriating millions of dollars from their joint account into a secret company.
Peter stated he felt compelled to involve the EFCC after Paul challenged him to “do your worst” during their last discussion about the matter. Jude, for his part, maintained that he had done everything possible—including sacrificing his own interests—to mend the rift between his brothers.
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