Nigerian singer Peter Okoye, a former member of the popular music group P-Square, has spoken about more than $800,000 in music royalties during an ongoing court case in Lagos.
Peter made the disclosure while giving evidence before the Federal High Court in Lagos. He was questioned by the lawyer representing his elder brother, Jude Okoye, during the court proceedings. The report was published on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
The money was paid as royalties through SACEM, a French organisation that collects and distributes payments to songwriters, composers and music publishers.
During the hearing, Peter confirmed that he received more than $800,000 from SACEM for songs recorded by P-Square between 2016 and 2026.
Peter maintained that the money belonged to him and his twin brother, Paul Okoye, because they were the artists behind the songs. He also said that Jude was not entitled to the disputed payments.
Peter further told the court that he and Paul wrote, composed and produced P-Square’s songs. However, he acknowledged that Jude directed some of the group’s music videos.
The court also heard evidence about royalty records. Peter confirmed that he received records covering royalties from 2016 to 2022. He explained that he had requested the information because some people were interested in buying the P-Square music catalogue.
The case is connected to allegations against Jude Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited. They are facing charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) involving alleged financial offences. Jude has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The court has not made a final decision on the disputed royalties or the allegations in the case. The proceedings are still continuing.
The court adjourned the matter until December 8 and 9, 2026, when further proceedings are expected to take place.
The development has attracted attention because P-Square was one of Nigeria’s most successful music groups before Peter and Paul went their separate ways. The latest court proceedings have now brought new attention to the financial arrangements surrounding some of the group’s music.
By: Oluwadare Precious
(Ripples)
