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Nigerian singer Peter Okoye, former member of popular music group P-Square, has spoken out about music royalties worth over $800,000 during an ongoing court case in Lagos.
Peter made this 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 is paid as royalties through SACEM, a French organization that collects and distributes payments to songwriters, composers and music publishers.
During the trial, Peter confirmed that he received more than $800,000 from SACEM for songs recorded by P-Square between 2016 and 2026.
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Peter maintained that the money belonged to him and his twin brother, Paul Okoye, as 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 songs. However, he admitted that Jude directed some of the group’s music videos.
The court also heard evidence about royalty records. Peter confirmed that he received recording royalties from 2016 to 2022. He explained that the request for information was because there were several people who were interested in buying the P-Square music catalogue.
This case relates to allegations against Jude Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited. They face charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) involving alleged financial offences. Jude pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The court has not yet made a final decision on the royalty dispute or allegations in the case. The process is still continuing.
The court adjourned the case until 8 and 9 December 2026, when further proceedings are expected to take place.
This development is of interest because P-Square was one of the most successful music groups in Nigeria before Peter and Paul split. The latest court proceedings have now brought new attention to the financial arrangements surrounding some of the group’s music.
By: Precious Oluwadare
