Peter Okoye apologises, calls out twin brother ‘Rudeboy’ over language saga

Nigerian singer Peter Okoye, also known as Mr P, has issued an apology for his recent comments regarding Nigerian languages, which he claims were misunderstood and not meant to disrespect the nation's linguistic heritage.

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If my response to ‘Who Naija language help?’ upset some people, I apologise and take full responsibility for my words. That doesn’t mean I hate Nigerian languages or our culture.

The controversy erupted after Okoye responded to a social media user asking if his French-fluent children could speak Igbo, by questioning, "Who Naija language help?". This remark drew significant criticism online.

In a statement shared on X, Okoye accepted responsibility for the backlash, stating, "If my response to ‘Who Naija language help?’ upset some people, I apologise and take full responsibility for my words. That doesn’t mean I hate Nigerian languages or our culture." He explained his comment was a general observation about Nigeria's many indigenous languages, not a specific attack on Igbo.

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At no point did I say I hate the Igbo language or Igbo culture. I said ‘Naija language,’ referring to the different languages in Nigeria, but some individuals twisted it and made it seem like I specifically mentioned Igbo. I didn’t.

However, Okoye also turned his attention to his twin brother, Paul Okoye, known as Rudeboy. He accused Rudeboy of deliberately twisting his words and using the controversy as another opportunity to tarnish his image. "But again, bro, you’re at it again, using this moment as another opportunity to pull me down," Okoye wrote, expressing frustration with his brother's repeated public criticisms.

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But again, bro, you’re at it again, using this moment as another opportunity to pull me down. Just like I wrote in my open letter two years ago, doing everything possible to make people hate me will never work.

Okoye stated he was tired of remaining silent when attacked, vowing to reciprocate the energy he receives. "At this point, I think it’s only fair I start giving the same energy I receive. No more Mr. Nice Guy," he declared.

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At this point, I think it’s only fair I start giving the same energy I receive. No more Mr. Nice Guy.