Nigerian singer Peter Okoye, popularly known as one half of the former music duo P-Square, has told the Federal High Court in Lagos that he received more than $800,000 in music royalties from SACEM, the France-based organisation responsible for collecting and distributing copyright royalties.
Peter made the disclosure while giving evidence virtually before Justice Alexander Owoeye. He was cross-examined by Clement Onwuewunor, SAN, counsel for his twin brother, Jude Okoye.
SACEM collects and distributes royalties on behalf of songwriters, composers and music publishers.
Peter Okoye Testifies on P-Square Royalties
The testimony forms part of a case involving Jude Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a seven-count charge against them over alleged financial offences involving N1.3 billion and $1 million.
Jude Okoye has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
During the court proceedings, Peter was questioned about his earlier evidence concerning access to P-Square royalty records.
He had previously stated that Jude took more than three months to provide the royalty records after he requested them in 2022.
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However, during cross-examination, Peter’s lawyer was told that the request for the documents was made on October 16, 2022, while Jude obtained and forwarded the records six days later, on October 22.
Peter disagreed with the suggestion, maintaining that he had requested the records earlier in 2022. However, when asked to produce a text message, email or other documentation proving that an earlier request had been made, he acknowledged that he could not provide one.
Royalty Records Covered 2016 to 2022
Peter confirmed that he eventually received the royalty statement from Jude.
According to his testimony, the documents covered P-Square royalties from 2016 to 2022, including payments associated with Lex Records.
Peter told the court that he sought the records because some individuals had expressed interest in purchasing the P-Square music catalogue.
He also confirmed that Jude sent him the account details in 2022 and that the EFCC was aware that the documents had been forwarded to him.
Peter Disputes Jude’s Claim to SACEM Money
A major issue during the hearing was the ownership of the SACEM royalties generated from P-Square songs.
Peter rejected Jude’s claim to a share of the royalties, insisting that the money belonged to him and his twin brother, Paul Okoye.
When questioned about the SACEM agreement, which was signed by Jude rather than Peter or Paul, Peter said it had been signed by “the team”.
He nevertheless maintained that Jude was not part of P-Square.
Peter also confirmed that the 10 songs responsible for the SACEM royalty payments were P-Square songs.
Peter Says He Received More Than $800,000
During cross-examination, Peter was asked about claims that he received approximately $800,000 from SACEM between 2016 and 2026.
He acknowledged receiving the money but maintained that the funds belonged to the artists.
Peter told the court that Jude Okoye did not receive any of the SACEM payments.
When asked whether he informed Jude about the money, Peter responded that the funds were intended for the artists.
The singer also acknowledged that he had previously given Jude 25 per cent of his SACEM earnings, but denied claims that Jude later requested quarterly payments after the royalty accounts were reconciled in 2022.
Peter Okoye Addresses Jude’s Role in P-Square
The court also heard testimony about Jude Okoye’s role as the former group’s manager.
Peter said he and Jude did not have a formal employment agreement, explaining that their business relationship operated through Northside Entertainment Limited.
When asked directly whether Jude was a member of P-Square, Peter maintained that he was not.
Peter further stated that he and Paul wrote, composed and produced P-Square songs, although he acknowledged that Jude directed some of the group’s music videos.
The testimony provides further details about the dispute involving P-Square music royalties, SACEM payments, music catalogue ownership and the financial relationship between Peter and Jude Okoye.
Court Adjourns P-Square Royalties Case
The Federal High Court in Lagos has adjourned the matter until December 8 and 9, 2026, when further proceedings are expected to take place.
The case continues to attract attention within Nigeria’s entertainment industry because of its implications for music royalties, copyright administration, artist earnings and financial management in the Nigerian music business.
Source: newsthemegh.com