Musical duos and bands often face challenges that test their longevity. As members evolve and differences arise, these groups frequently disband, with some members pursuing solo careers while others step away from the music industry altogether.
This trend is not limited to non-relatives but can even affect family members, as evidenced by the recent turmoil within the Nigerian music scene involving Peter and Paul Okoye, the twins behind the iconic duo 'P-Square.'
Before I tell you the whole story, here is what I need you all to understand. It's always surprising to me when people say, "P-SQUARE is always bringing their family matters into the public eye." Let me clarify this. P-SQUARE is not just a family - it's a public brand, but... pic.twitter.com/LmBRpFM7Nv-- Mr Psquare (@PeterPsquare) August 12, 2024
Despite their highly publicized reunion over two years ago, Peter and Paul Okoye have parted ways once again.
The brothers' split has reignited longstanding tensions and allegations. Peter has responded to accusations from his twin, Paul (Rudeboy), who claimed that Peter petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate him for embezzlement and unexplained wealth.
In a recent interview with Lagos-based City FM, Paul alleged that Peter's actions were motivated by personal grievances and sought to tarnish his reputation. Paul also confirmed P-Square's dissolution, adding fuel to the already heated situation.
Peter, however, has refuted these claims. Through his social media channels, he challenged Paul to provide evidence and clarified that his petition was directed at Jude, their older brother and former manager, as well as Ifeoma, Jude's wife.
Peter also accused Paul of attempting to rewrite the history of their success, asserting that Paul had taken undue credit for their achievements, including songwriting and singing.
Peter's open letter on Monday underscored his frustration, accusing Paul of disrespecting his talent, his wife, and their family. He listed several songs he had written, such as "Ejeajo," "Get-Squared," "Bizzy Body," and "Personally," which he felt Paul had failed to acknowledge.
Shocking revelation and betrayal
Peter Okoye's discovery of a covert company allegedly controlled by their brother Jude and his wife. This unsettling find has altered their family dynamics and contributed to the dissolution of the beloved music duo.
Peter revealed that he stumbled upon a company named Northside Music, which closely mirrored the name of their legitimate management firm, Northside Entertainment. "I was stunned to find that Northside Music was registered to Jude and Ifeoma Okoye, with the address linked to Jude's family home," Peter said.
"Despite my attempts to confront Paul about this secret company and the missing P-Square royalties, he consistently denied any knowledge."
Peter further exposed that Northside Music was used to siphon millions of dollars and hundreds of millions of Naira from their legitimate business. "The discovery was more than just troubling--it was a betrayal that had been unfolding over several years," he added.
Peter and Paul Okoye, who began their music career in 1999 and dominated the African music scene for over a decade, first separated in 2016. After a four-year hiatus, they reunited in 2021, but their relationship deteriorated once more. They performed together in Kigali for RPF party anniversary celebrations and at Kwita Izina events.