The members of the defunct Psquare duo; Peter and Paul Okoye have reacted differently to the charge and detention of their elder brother and former manager Jude Okoye by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Yesterday, the EFCC charged Jude Okoye with laundering over ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59. His company, Northside Music Ltd., is also implicated in the case, with allegations including the purchase of a prime property in Ikoyi, Lagos, valued at ₦850,000,000, using funds that were allegedly proceeds of unlawful activities.
Okoye appeared in the Federal High Court in Lagos before Judge Alexander Owoeye, where he was formally arraigned on a seven-count charge related to illicit financial activities.
Among the charges, Okoye is accused of converting over one million dollars through a bureau de change to conceal the origin of the funds, which were allegedly funneled through various bank accounts from an Access Bank account operated by his company.
Despite the serious nature of these allegations, Okoye pleaded “not guilty” during his arraignment.
How the Psquare brothers reacted
Paul Okoye, also known as Rudeboy has declared his support for the group’s former manager. Taking to his Instagram story, he wrote that this is, “Exactly what he wants. This too, shall pass. Stay strong brother @judeengees”
Peter Okoye (Mr P) on the other hand declined to comment when Netng spoke with him. He said that he is not ready to speak to anybody concerning this case at the moment.
What Next
Following his appearance, Jude Okoye’s lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, requested bail and argued for Okoye to remain in EFCC custody until the hearing. However, prosecution counsel, Larry Peters Aso, opposed the bail request due to overcrowding in EFCC facilities.
The court ruled in favor of the prosecution, remanding Okoye to the Ikoyi correctional facility. The case has been adjourned to February 28 for a formal bail hearing, with the trial set to commence on April 14.
