N1.3bn, $1m fraud: Peter’s absence stalls Jude Okoye’s trial

The trial of Jude Okoye, former manager of the defunct music duo P-Square, was on Wednesday stalled at the federal high court in Lagos following the absence of prosecution witness Peter Okoye, who was scheduled for cross-examination.

Jude Okoye and his company, Northside Music Limited, are facing a seven-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged fraud involving ₦1.3 billion and $1 million. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty.

At the resumed hearing before Justice Alexander Owoeye, EFCC counsel G. C. Akaogu informed the court that the witness could not attend because his flight from Abuja to Lagos was reportedly rescheduled.

According to the prosecution, Peter Okoye had personally communicated the development and informed counsel of the disruption earlier in the day, prompting a request for adjournment.

However, Clement Onwuenwunor (SAN), defence counsel challenged the explanation, arguing that the witness was not affected by any flight delay and may have remained in Lagos.

He told the court that contrary information suggested that the witness was already in the city, casting doubt on the prosecution’s account of his absence.

The court did not make any determination on the conflicting claims regarding the witness’s whereabouts.

Following the development, Justice Owoeye adjourned the matter until September 21, 2026, for continuation of hearing.