Nigerian music star Peter Okoye, known as Mr P and a former member of the defunct group P-Square, has spoken out strongly against his family after testifying in court against his elder brother, Jude Okoye.
Jude is facing money laundering charges alongside a company called Northside Music Limited. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is accusing them of laundering over ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59.
Peter gave his testimony on Monday at the Federal High Court in Lagos, where he said Jude allegedly created a company named Northside Music Limited, which is similar in name to Northside Entertainment Ltd — the company that once managed P-Square.
He claimed that Jude used this new company to move money belonging to the music group in 2022, and said his twin brother, Paul Okoye (also known as Rudeboy), was also involved.
The next day, Peter took to Instagram to express his pain, saying he had kept quiet for over 20 years to protect his family, but it had almost destroyed him.
“Don’t let ‘family’ be the reason you’re drowning in silence. I did – for over 20 years plus. And it almost cost me everything,” he wrote in an emotional Instagram Story on Tuesday.
He continued, “But now I know better – love doesn’t manipulate, loyalty doesn’t betray, and family does not steal from you. Family that steals and breaks you isn’t family at all.”
Peter added that he now puts his mental health first and will no longer remain silent when wrong is being done.
“Real family doesn’t drain you, shame you, discriminate against you or ignore your pain. My sanity matters. My mental health is a priority. If it costs my mental health, then it’s too expensive.”
The EFCC is continuing its case against Jude and Northside Music Limited, and the matter has drawn wide public attention due to the fame of the Okoye family.
