Nigerian singer Peter Okoye has admitted receiving more than $800,000 in royalties from French music rights organisation SACEM for songs recorded by the defunct music group, P-Square, during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Lagos.

Peter made the admission while testifying virtually before Justice Alexander Owoeye and being cross-examined by Clement Onwuewunor, SAN, counsel to his twin brother, Jude Okoye. Jude and his company, Northside Music Limited, are facing a seven-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged ₦1.3 billion and $1 million fraud. Jude has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

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During Tuesday’s proceedings, Peter was questioned about his claim that Jude took more than three months to provide P-Square’s backend royalty records after he requested them in 2022. Counsel argued that the request was made on October 16, 2022, and that Jude forwarded the records six days later, on October 22. Peter insisted he had requested the records earlier, but admitted he had no text message, email or other document to prove it.

Peter confirmed that the royalty report covered payments from 2016 to 2022, including records relating to Lex Records. He said he requested the information because some people were interested in buying P-Square’s music catalogue. He also acknowledged that Jude sent him the account information in 2022 and that the EFCC knew the report had been forwarded.

The singer, however, disputed Jude’s entitlement to the SACEM royalties, maintaining that the money belonged to him and his twin brother, Paul. Although counsel pointed out that the SACEM contract was signed by Jude, Peter said it was signed by “the team” and insisted Jude was not part of P-Square. He also acknowledged that he had previously paid Jude a quarter of his SACEM share, but denied that Jude demanded quarterly payments after the royalties were reconciled in 2022.

When asked about receiving approximately $800,000 from SACEM between 2016 and 2026, Peter admitted receiving the money but said it was meant for the artists and that Jude received nothing from the payments. He further maintained that all P-Square songs were composed, written and produced by him and Paul, while acknowledging that Jude directed some of the group’s music videos.

The court adjourned further hearing in the case until December 8 and 9, 2026.