Peter Okoye of P-Square has spoken publicly about what he describes as more than 20 years of emotional pain caused by betrayal within his family. The singer made the remarks shortly after testifying in a court case against his elder brother and former manager, Jude Okoye.
Taking to his Instagram story on Tuesday, Peter shared a message that shed light on his state of mind and his reasons for breaking his silence.
“Don’t let ‘family’ be the reason you’re drowning in silence. I did – for over 20 years and it almost cost me everything. But now I know better – love doesn’t manipulate, loyalty doesn’t betray, and family doesn’t steal from you.”
Peter wrote that true family should never bring harm, whether emotionally or financially. “Family that steals and breaks you isn’t family at all. Real family doesn’t drain you, shame you, discriminate against you, or ignore your pain,” he added.
The post came just one day after he appeared at the Federal High Court in Lagos. Peter testified as the first witness for the prosecution in a money laundering case involving Jude Okoye.
Jude is facing seven counts of financial misconduct, including the alleged laundering of N1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59. He and his company, Northside Music Ltd, are being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In his testimony, Peter said Jude secretly set up a new company—Northside Music Ltd—with a name very similar to their original business, Northside Entertainment Ltd. According to Peter, Jude registered the company in his wife’s name without informing him or his twin brother Paul.
“I found out Jude had incorporated another company, Northside Music Ltd similar to our original Northside Entertainment Ltd and he was using it to collect our royalties. He and his wife are the only directors. She owns 80 per cent and he owns 20 per cent,” Peter testified.
Peter said he became suspicious about royalty payments after the P-Square group split in 2017. He noticed unusual gaps in earnings and decided to contact a lawyer. The lawyer, Afolabi, then filed a petition to the EFCC on his behalf.
The case has caused more friction within the Okoye family. Paul, Peter’s twin brother, has taken Jude’s side and accused Peter of creating the entire situation.
In a public statement made earlier this year, Paul said, “The truth is, Peter is the one putting Jude through these things. It’s Peter who is doing these.” He added that if the accusations are true, then Peter and Paul would also be guilty, as they all shared in the same dealings.
Despite their brief reunion in 2021 and some collaborative songs in 2022, the P-Square duo has not fully reconciled. Their rift, which became public in 2015, seems far from healing. The court has adjourned the case to June 4 for cross-examination.
