Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has criticised singer Peter Okoye for what he described as conducting a “social media trial” against his elder brother and former manager, Jude Okoye, amid the ongoing legal dispute involving the Okoye family.
Effiong, who previously served as legal counsel to Jude Okoye in the matter, argued that Peter’s public commentary on social media risks undermining judicial proceedings, noting that the issues remain before courts of competent jurisdiction.
According to the lawyer, Jude Okoye has not been convicted of any offence and is therefore entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a court of law.
He expressed concern that Peter, who is the nominal complainant in two ongoing court cases, has continued to make public statements and release online videos while the matters are still pending before the courts.
Effiong further alleged that the narrative being presented by Peter on social media differs significantly from admissions the singer reportedly made while giving evidence under cross-examination during court proceedings.
According to the lawyer, the statements made under oath should be distinguished from public commentary, insisting that legal disputes should ultimately be resolved through the judicial process rather than on digital platforms.
His remarks come amid the renewed public fallout between the former P-Square members, with Peter Okoye recently releasing a series of videos detailing allegations relating to the management of the group’s finances and business interests.
The dispute has continued to dominate discussions on social media, with Peter, Jude and Paul Okoye making separate public comments on the family disagreement.
Effiong maintained that regardless of public sentiment, the courts remain the appropriate forum for determining the issues in dispute and urged all parties to allow the judicial process to run its course.
