Fresh Twist In P-Square Legal Battle As Jude Okoye’s Fraud Trial Is Adjourned

The ongoing trial of Jude Okoye, former manager of the now-defunct music group P-Square, was on Wednesday stalled at the Federal High Court in Lagos due to the absence of Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Peter, who is the nominal complainant in the case, was expected to be cross-examined by the defence counsel at the resumed sitting.

Jude Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited, are standing trial before Justice Alexander Owoeye over allegations involving ₦1.3 billion and $1 million in fraud.

The case is part of a wider legal dispute involving members of the Okoye family, whose former music group P-Square enjoyed massive success before their split.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Jude Okoye and his company on seven counts relating to the alleged fraud.

Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to all charges.

At the resumed hearing, the prosecution counsel, G. Akaogu, informed the court that Peter was unable to attend because his flight from Abuja to Lagos had been rescheduled.

He told the court that the witness had personally reached out to explain his absence.

“The witness called and said his flight from Abuja was rescheduled, which was why he could not make it to court. I also informed learned Silk of this development earlier today,” the prosecutor said.

Following this, the prosecution requested a new date for the witness to appear for cross-examination.

However, defence counsel Clement Onwuewunor (SAN) confirmed he had been notified of the absence but challenged the explanation provided by the prosecution.

He told the court that he received the notice while already en route to the court premises and added that he had another matter scheduled in Akure, Ondo State, which he could have attended instead.

Onwuewunor further claimed that he had received information suggesting that Peter was already in Lagos at the time of the hearing.

“The prosecutor informed me when I was at Falomo, close to the court. I expressed my displeasure because I was supposed to be in Akure for another case,” he said.

“In fact, I was told that the witness did not travel and is actually in Lagos. I do not understand why it was said that his flight was rescheduled,” he added.

After hearing from both parties, Justice Alexander Owoeye adjourned the case to September 21, 2026, for continuation of trial.

The adjournment means Peter Okoye’s cross-examination by the defence will proceed on the next scheduled date, subject to his availability.