Jude Okoye, former manager and elder brother of Nigerian music duo P-Square, has been granted bail by the Federal High Court in Lagos ahead of his trial for alleged fraud.
As part of his bail conditions, Okoye must provide two sureties each with landed properties in Lagos valued at ₦100 million. The court will verify the documents before he can be released. Additionally, he is prohibited from leaving the country without approval
Justice Alexander Owoeye ruled on the bail application on Monday, March 3, 2025, after hearing arguments from Okoye’s lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel, Fanny Anum.
Okoye was arraigned on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, on charges of alleged money laundering involving ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59. He was charged alongside his company, Northside Music Limited, in a seven-count case filed by the EFCC.
The anti-graft agency alleged that the offences violated Section 18(2)(a) of the relevant law and were punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act. Okoye pleaded not guilty to the charges and was subsequently remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Facility.
His lawyer had earlier requested that he remain in EFCC custody pending the bail hearing, but the prosecution objected.
Justice Owoeye stated that Okoye would remain in custody until he meets the bail conditions. His trial is scheduled to begin on April 14, 2025.