The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Lagos Zonal Directorate, has arraigned Jude Okoye Chigozie, former manager and elder brother of Paul and Peter Okoye of the defunct P-Square music group, on charges of money laundering.
Okoye, alongside his company, Northside Music Ltd, appeared before Justice A.O. Owoeye of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on February 26, 2025. The EFCC filed a seven-count charge against him, alleging involvement in money laundering amounting to N1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59.
One of the charges states that Okoye and his company, in 2022, acquired a property worth N850 million in Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos, knowing it was linked to proceeds of unlawful activity. Another charge accuses them of converting $1,019,762.87 through a bureau de change and distributing the funds across multiple bank accounts to conceal its illicit origin.
Okoye pleaded “not guilty” to all charges. While the prosecution counsel, L.P. Aso, requested a trial date and for Okoye to be remanded in a correctional facility, the defense counsel, Inibehe Effiong, sought bail and asked that Okoye be kept in EFCC custody pending the bail hearing. The prosecution objected, citing overcrowding in EFCC holding cells.
Justice Owoeye ruled that Okoye be remanded at Ikoyi Correctional Centre and adjourned the bail hearing to February 28, 2025, with the trial set to commence on April 14, 2025.
Post a Comment