Singer Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, has reignited a fierce debate over the value of indigenous Nigerian languages after doubling down on his assertion that they are “useless.” The former P-Square member faced heavy criticism on social media for claiming that speaking Nigerian languages offers no practical benefits, a stance he has firmly defended.
Mr P’s initial comments and the backlash
The controversy began on July 27, 2026, when Mr P posted on X (formerly Twitter) about his children’s fluency in French while vacationing in Paris. He wrote, “Still in Paris! Watching my kids speak French so effortlessly makes me think… maybe it’s time to own a crib here in Paris. Just a thought.” The post quickly divided opinion, with some users applauding his emphasis on globally recognized languages and others criticizing him for neglecting his native Igbo.
In subsequent posts, Mr P doubled down, writing, “Again and again… Who Nigerian language help? If e pain you, Go hit your head for wall. I am a public figure and so what? Call me names. That's your own cup of tea. The real question is: Did I ever complain that my kids can’t speak my language? None of you have still answered the question: Who has speaking a Nigerian language really helped?”
Celebrity and public reactions
Comedian Klint Da Drunk (Klintoncod) came to Mr P’s defense, arguing that global languages offer more opportunities. He wrote, “The world is progressing but Nigeria regresses on a daily, most people are running away from the country and 10 out of 10 times they will not use Igbo for anything in a white man’s land, speaking French and English or any globally recognised language will open far better doors for your kids than igbo or Yoruba will unless they have plans to become Igbo or Yoruba movies actors or artistry.”
However, many X users challenged Mr P’s views. User Kalu asked, “Can they also speak igbo? Lost people.” El Believe commented, “People like you are the reason Westerners don't feel remorseful about colonialism, because even today, you're still mentally enslaved.” Quaesi remarked, “The level of hatred some people have for their own birthplace deserves a fully funded UN doctoral research project.” Another user, Truth, said, “Is Paris language your problem? Misplaced priorities,” while Kator Tarkaa added, “I find it weird that people who are dragging him are doing so in English.”
Broader cultural implications
The debate has sparked wider conversations about the balance between preserving indigenous languages and equipping children with languages perceived as more valuable globally. Many Nigerians argue that prioritizing foreign languages over native ones contributes to the erosion of the country’s cultural heritage. According to linguistic experts, over 400 languages are spoken in Nigeria, but many are at risk of extinction as younger generations shift to English and other global languages.
Mr P’s remarks come at a time when efforts to revitalize indigenous languages are gaining momentum. Organizations like UNESCO and local cultural groups have been advocating for policies that promote mother-tongue education. However, Mr P’s stance reflects a contrasting view that economic and global mobility often take precedence over cultural preservation.
The singer remains unapologetic, insisting that his comments were misinterpreted and that he never complained about his children’s inability to speak Igbo. “So why are people angry?” he asked in a follow-up post. As of now, the controversy shows no sign of abating, with both sides digging in.
