Jude Okoye, former manager of the iconic Nigerian music duo Psquare, has regained his freedom after fulfilling the stringent bail conditions in a high-profile ₦1.38 billion money laundering case.
Okoye, who is also the elder brother of music stars Peter and Paul Okoye, had spent over two months at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre. His release was confirmed Wednesday evening following weeks of failed attempts to meet bail terms.
The Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos—presided over by Justice A. Owoeye—is currently hearing a seven-count charge against Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited, involving allegations of laundering ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59.
After pleading not guilty at his initial arraignment on February 26, 2025, Jude was granted bail of ₦100 million. However, on March 3, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed four additional charges, citing unauthorized diversion of music royalties belonging to his brothers.
Prosecutors allege that Okoye misappropriated substantial funds—$767,544.15, £34,537.59, $133,566.49, and $118,652.20—thereby denying Peter Okoye his rightful earnings.
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A second bail of ₦50 million was imposed following the new charges, which he initially struggled to fulfill. His eventual release was celebrated on social media by Paul Okoye, who posted videos of Jude exiting the prison and reuniting with loved ones.
“Jude is finally out after 2 months + all their efforts to frustrate his bail has finally collapsed. Welcome home brother @judeengees And happy birthday,” Paul captioned the video.
The legal saga has reignited public interest in the long-standing rift within the Okoye family, dating back to 2017 when a fallout over Jude’s managerial role split Psquare. While the group briefly reconciled in 2021, fresh tensions flared in 2024.
In August 2024, Paul accused Peter of orchestrating Jude’s arrest, a claim Peter denied. Instead, Peter alleged that Jude embezzled millions from their joint business account, leading him to report the matter to the EFCC after a bitter exchange.
Jude, however, insisted he had made significant personal sacrifices to mend the strained family ties and expressed disappointment over the fallout.
The case continues in court, with the next hearing expected in the coming weeks.
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