Proceedings in the alleged N1.3 billion and $1 million fraud trial involving music executive Jude Okoye were on Wednesday adjourned after key prosecution witness and nominal complainant, Peter Okoye, failed to appear before the Federal High Court in Lagos.
Jude Okoye, former manager of the defunct P-Square music group, and his company, Northside Music Limited, are facing a seven-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The defendants have pleaded not guilty to the allegations.
The case, which came up before Justice Alexander Owoeye for the cross-examination of Peter Okoye, could not proceed following the witness’s absence.
Explaining the situation to the court, prosecuting counsel G. Akaogu said Peter had informed him that he was unable to attend due to a change in his travel arrangements from Abuja to Lagos.
“The witness called and told me that his flight from Abuja was rescheduled, which prevented him from getting to court. I also informed learned counsel for the defence about the development this morning,” Akaogu told the court while requesting a new hearing date.
However, defence counsel Clement Onwuewunor questioned the explanation, insisting that information available to him suggested that Peter was already in Lagos.
“The prosecutor informed me of the development while I was on my way to court. I was unhappy because I had another matter scheduled in Akure,” Onwuewunor said.
He added, “I have been informed by a reliable source that the witness did not travel and is actually in Lagos. I do not know why the prosecutor said his flight was rescheduled.”
Following submissions from both parties, Justice Owoeye adjourned the matter until September 21, 2026, for continuation of hearing.
The EFCC alleges that Jude Okoye and Northside Music Limited were involved in financial transactions amounting to N1.3 billion and $1 million, claims which the defendants have denied.
The case is expected to resume with the cross-examination of Peter Okoye when proceedings continue in September.
