Paul Okoye Stands by Brother Jude Amid EFCC Money Laundering Case

Paul Okoye expressed support for his brother Jude, who is detained and facing EFCC charges related to money laundering. Allegations involve misuse of P-Square’s royalties, leading to family disputes. Jude has denied the charges and is awaiting trial, with subsequent court dates set for bail hearings. Jude plays a significant role in the music industry as a former manager of P-Square and the current head of Northside Entertainment.

Paul Okoye, a member of the musical duo P-Square, has voiced his support for his elder brother, Jude Okoye, who is currently embroiled in legal issues with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Nigeria. After a Federal High Court ruling mandated that Jude remain in prison until bail hearings, Paul encouraged him through an Instagram post, stating, “This too shall pass. Stay strong brother.” This situation stems from allegations involving money laundering and internal family disputes concerning financial mismanagement of P-Square’s royalties.

In August 2023, tensions escalated within the Okoye family when Peter Okoye, Jude’s twin brother, filed a petition against Jude and his wife. Allegations revolve around Jude’s purported diversion of royalty payments into a secret account, triggering significant conflict among the brothers. Despite these serious accusations, Jude has denied the claims, branding them as unfounded and defamatory.

The EFCC has charged Jude Okoye with money laundering involving ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59. He and his company, Northside Music Ltd., were brought before Justice Alexander Owoeye, facing seven counts related to acquiring property and altering currency to conceal proceeds from illegal activities. Jude has pled not guilty to all the charges.

Following his plea, the prosecution requested a trial date while arguing that Jude should remain in custody due to overcrowding issues at the EFCC’s facilities. The defense counsel submitted a bail request but was met with opposition from the prosecution. Consequently, the court adjourned the case to February 28 for the bail hearing and set April 14 for the trial.

In addition to his ongoing legal troubles, Jude Okoye is recognized as a significant figure in the Nigerian music industry. He has been described as an artist manager and video director for P-Square, which he helped establish as a leading act in Africa. After the dissolution of the duo in 2017, Jude founded Northside Entertainment, where he continues to oversee other artists, including Cynthia Morgan.

The legal troubles facing Jude Okoye highlight the complexities within the Okoye family and the broader implications for their career in music. Paul Okoye’s public support underscores familial bonds amidst adversity, while Jude’s allegations of money laundering raise serious concerns about financial integrity in their professional dealings. The ongoing court proceedings will determine the resolution of these disputes and their potential impact on the Okoye family’s legacy in the entertainment sector.

Original Source: www.bbc.com