Court Grants N100m Bail to Ex-P-Square Manager Jude Okoye Over Money Laundering Trial

Justice Alexander Owoeye of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has approved bail for Jude Okoye Chigozie, the former manager of the now-defunct music duo P-Square, setting the sum at N100 million.

Okoye, who is facing a seven-count charge of money laundering, is being prosecuted alongside his company, Northside Music Limited, by the Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He pleaded not guilty to the allegations during his arraignment on February 26, 2025.

At Monday’s hearing, his legal counsel, Inibehe Effiong, sought bail on medical grounds, urging the court to approve his application. However, prosecuting counsel Fanen Anum strongly objected, insisting Okoye posed a flight risk and could tamper with witnesses. He urged the court to deny bail and instead opt for an accelerated trial.

After reviewing both arguments, Justice Owoeye ruled that the charges were bailable, granting bail under strict conditions. Okoye must provide two sureties, each guaranteeing N100 million, with at least one surety owning landed property within the court’s jurisdiction. Additionally, he must inform the EFCC before any travel outside the court’s territory.

The trial resumes on April 14, 2025.