The controversy surrounding the arrest of Nigerian music executive Jude Okoye has deepened as Paul Okoye, one half of the famous P-Square duo, accused his twin brother, Peter Okoye, of orchestrating their elder brother’s legal troubles. Paul made the claim on Friday while addressing the public following Jude’s arraignment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged ₦1.3 billion fraud case.
Speaking in a widely circulated video, Paul expressed his determination to secure Jude’s release and blamed Peter for his brother’s current predicament. He alleged that Peter was responsible for the accusations leveled against Jude and insisted that if Jude was guilty, then both he and Peter should also be implicated.
“The truth is, Peter is the one putting Jude through these things. It is Peter that is doing these things. He is putting him in prison, and I am here to bring him out. Because the same crime that they accused him of doing, then Peter is guilty, and Paul is also guilty,” Paul stated.
The claims have added another layer of complexity to the ongoing family dispute that has persisted since P-Square’s split in 2017. Despite their reunion in 2021, tensions have remained between the Okoye brothers, and Jude’s legal troubles have reignited the long-standing rift.
Jude Okoye was arraigned in court on Friday over allegations of financial mismanagement and fraud involving ₦1.3 billion. The EFCC accused him of engaging in financial transactions that violated the law, but Jude pleaded not guilty to the charges. He was subsequently remanded in custody, pending further legal proceedings.
The allegations against Jude have sparked widespread reactions, particularly due to his significant influence in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. As P-Square’s former manager, he played a crucial role in the group’s rise to fame, overseeing their contracts, performances, and financial dealings. His legal troubles have now put the family under intense public scrutiny.
Peter Okoye, through his management, has distanced himself from the allegations made by Paul. In a response to Saturday Beat, Peter’s manager, Emem Kush, denied any involvement in Jude’s arrest and emphasized that the case was strictly between Jude and the EFCC. He clarified that Peter’s only petition was against a company handling funds on his behalf, not against Jude directly.
“I don’t think Peter has any comments on this issue because the case is based on the EFCC investigation and Jude Okoye. I don’t see what Peter Okoye has to do with it,” Kush stated.
He further explained that Peter was merely seeking financial accountability from a company linked to him and that the EFCC was responsible for handling the case.
“Peter’s petition was only against the company that has been receiving funds on his behalf. So, don’t mix up issues or create issues where they are not,” he added.
Despite these clarifications, Paul Okoye has remained vocal about his belief that Peter is playing a role in Jude’s predicament. The family dispute has now taken center stage in the public eye, with fans and industry insiders weighing in on the controversy.
Over the years, the Okoye brothers have had several public disagreements, often revolving around financial and managerial issues. Their initial split in 2017 was attributed to irreconcilable differences, with Jude being a central figure in the disputes. While they briefly reunited in 2021, tensions have continued to simmer beneath the surface.
Jude’s arrest has further highlighted the challenges associated with financial management in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. The case has drawn comparisons to other high-profile legal battles involving industry executives accused of financial misconduct. The EFCC has been cracking down on financial crimes, and Jude’s case underscores the agency’s continued efforts to investigate and prosecute individuals suspected of fraudulent activities.
Legal analysts have noted that Jude’s trial could take several months, depending on the complexity of the charges and the strength of the evidence presented by the EFCC. If found guilty, he could face severe penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment. His legal team is expected to mount a strong defense, arguing against the accusations brought against him.
The unfolding drama has divided fans of P-Square, with some supporting Paul’s claims while others side with Peter. Some believe that Paul’s emotional response is a natural reaction to his brother’s legal troubles, while others argue that the accusations against Peter are baseless and only serve to escalate an already tense family situation.
Peter Okoye, who now performs under the stage name “Mr. P,” has remained focused on his solo career and business ventures. Since P-Square’s split, he has released several singles, collaborated with international artists, and ventured into other businesses, including endorsements and investments.
Paul Okoye, performing as “Rudeboy,” has also maintained his music career, frequently addressing personal and industry-related issues. His decision to publicly call out Peter over Jude’s arrest suggests that the family feud is far from over.
Jude’s legal troubles could have lasting implications not just for the Okoye family but for the broader entertainment industry. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of financial transparency and proper management practices in the industry, where financial disputes are not uncommon.
As the case progresses, many will be watching closely to see how the legal proceedings unfold and whether the Okoye brothers can overcome their differences. While Peter maintains his innocence, Paul’s insistence on his involvement suggests that tensions within the family may continue for the foreseeable future.
For now, Jude remains in legal limbo, awaiting the next steps in his trial. Whether this latest controversy will bring the Okoye family together or push them further apart remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the scandal surrounding Jude’s alleged ₦1.3 billion fraud case has once again put the spotlight on the family’s internal struggles, reinforcing their reputation for high-profile disputes.
