Singer Peter Okoye of the Psquare group has ignited a heated debate after stating that speaking a Nigerian language has not benefited anyone, and that he prioritizes teaching his children French and English over Igbo. Comedian Klinton Cod has publicly agreed with Okoye, arguing that globally recognized languages provide far better opportunities in a world where Nigeria is regressing.
Peter Okoye's Original Post Sparks Controversy
On X (formerly Twitter), Okoye shared that his children speak French fluently and were asked if they can speak their native Igbo language. He responded: "Again and again… who has speaking a Nigerian language helped?" He added, "The official language of Nigeria is English, yet this is what you’re worried about?" ending with "Una never ready. The joke is on you." His post drew mixed reactions, with many criticizing him for devaluing indigenous languages.
Klinton Cod's Defense: A Pragmatic Perspective
Comedian Klinton Cod weighed in, revealing he has had similar arguments with his own father. He wrote: "Crazy thing is i have argued this with my own father a thousand times, they are always pissed my kids speak French and English but not igbo and my response is simple: 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."
Cod further argued that speaking French and English or any globally recognized language will open far better doors for children than Igbo or Yoruba will, unless they plan to become actors in Nollywood or pursue artistry. He emphasized: "Now it doesn’t mean if i have the opportunity to teach them igbo i wouldn’t but i will prioritise a language that will help their lives in adulthood than anything else."
Direct Support for Peter Okoye
In a direct message to Okoye, Cod wrote: "Dear @PeterPsquare , on the kids language conversation, walai i am 100% with you on it, everyone can go f*ck themselves." He shared additional tweets reinforcing his stance, which he posted on July 28, 2026.
Broader Implications for Language and Identity
The debate highlights a tension between cultural preservation and practical career considerations. While Nigeria is home to over 500 languages, English remains the official language. Many Nigerians abroad find that indigenous languages are not widely used in professional or academic settings, leading some parents to prioritize global languages like French, Spanish, or Mandarin. However, critics argue that abandoning native languages erodes cultural heritage and identity.
This incident is not isolated: public figures like businessman Folorunso Alakija have also emphasized the importance of English proficiency. In contrast, language activists like Professor Kolawole Adeyemo stress that multilingualism, including mastery of indigenous languages, can be a cognitive and cultural asset.
Social Media Reactions
X users remain divided. One user commented, "We can teach our children both. It's not an either-or situation." Another supported Okoye, saying, "He's right. I speak Yoruba fluently but it hasn't paid a single bill abroad." The conversation continues to trend, with many parents sharing their own choices regarding their children's language education.
