Jude Okoye Freed After Two Months in ₦1.38bn Fraud Saga

 In a heart-stirring chapter of Nigeria’s music industry drama, Jude Okoye, former manager of the iconic P-Square duo, walked free on April 23, 2025, after over two months in custody at Ikoyi Correctional Centre, following allegations of laundering ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59. 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited, on February 26, 2025, before Justice Alexander Owoeye, charging them with seven counts of money laundering, including acquiring a ₦850 million property in Ikoyi with illicit funds. Okoye pleaded not guilty, setting the stage for a high-stakes legal battle that captivated the nation.

On March 3, Justice Owoeye granted Okoye bail of ₦100 million with strict conditions—two sureties with ₦100 million in landed properties and travel restrictions—but bureaucratic delays prolonged his detention. The case, fueled by a petition from Peter Okoye (Mr P), who testified on April 14 about Jude’s alleged diversion of P-Square royalties to a secret company, intensified family tensions. 

Paul Okoye (Rudeboy) celebrated Jude’s release on Instagram, writing, “Jude is finally out after 2 months … All their efforts to frustrate his bail have finally collapsed,” as videos showed Jude embracing his wife and children. The EFCC also arraigned Jude on March 4 before Justice Rahman Oshodi on four additional theft charges involving $1,019,762.87 and £34,537.59, further complicating the saga.

The release, has sparked fervent reactions. Fans lament the P-Square rift, with some supporting Peter’s pursuit of justice, others decrying the family’s public feud. The trial continues, with hearings set for May 23 (money laundering) and June 4 (theft), where Peter faces cross-examination.