jude okoye 3 (1).jpg
Jude Okoye, ex-manager of P-Square, has been arraigned by the EFCC for alleged money laundering involving ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59. He pleaded not guilty, and the court ordered his remand in Ikoyi Prison. The bail hearing is set for February 28, with trial starting April 14.

Jude Okoye, the former manager of the popular Nigerian music duo P-Square, has been arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on charges of money laundering. He appeared before Justice Alexander Owoeye at the Federal High Court in Lagos, facing a seven-count charge alongside his company, Northside Music Ltd.

According to the EFCC, Okoye allegedly laundered ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59. Investigators claim that he acquired a luxury property worth ₦850 million in Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, using proceeds suspected to be from illegal activities. Additionally, he is accused of converting over $1 million through Bureau de change operators to obscure its origins.

During the hearing, Okoye pleaded not guilty to all allegations. The prosecution, led by Larry Peters Aso, requested that he be held in a correctional facility pending trial. However, Okoye’s lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, urged the court to consider his bail request, proposing that he remain in EFCC custody instead. The prosecution opposed this, arguing that EFCC facilities were overcrowded.

After considering both arguments, Justice Owoeye ruled that Okoye be remanded in Ikoyi Prison. The bail hearing was scheduled for February 28, while the trial is set to begin on April 14.

The case has sparked reactions within the entertainment industry, with many watching closely as the legal battle unfolds. The EFCC has vowed to pursue the case vigorously, emphasizing its commitment to combating financial crimes in Nigeria.