Veteran gospel artist John Ikeotuonye, known as CDO, has accused the music duo P-Square of systematically stealing songs from other artistes during studio sessions in their early career. Speaking on the TalkTrue Podcast, CDO claimed the brothers would secretly record tracks being laid down by other musicians using their phones, a practice he described as an open secret in the industry.
CDO Details Alleged Method of Song Theft
CDO did not mince words when describing the duo's alleged behaviour. He stated: "P-Square at the beginning, not the copy-copy that they do. They were sampling people's sound and everything. If P-Square is dey for studio, why you dey record sound, they will steal your song immediately. Everybody in the industry knows now. I am telling you."
He further explained the specific method, saying: "If P-Square enters the studio, and person they record, they go use their phone, record, dub your song immediately. Go and check all their songs from the beginning. Na copy copy." According to CDO, this practice was widespread and known among musicians active during the same period as P-Square.
Criticism of Younger Generation's Ignorance
Beyond the allegations, CDO expressed frustration that younger music fans, particularly Gen Z, are unaware of what he claims was widely known industry behaviour. He contrasted their lack of knowledge with the firsthand experience of artistes who hustled alongside P-Square during that era, who, he said, are fully aware of the alleged incidents.
P-Square have not publicly responded to CDO's allegations. The duo, consisting of brothers Peter and Paul Okoye, rose to fame in the early 2000s with hits like "Do Me" and "Personally," and have remained influential figures in African pop music despite their on-and-off split.
The claims add to ongoing discussions about originality and intellectual property in the Nigerian music industry, which has seen several disputes over song credits in recent years. As of now, no legal action has been announced, and CDO's statements remain allegations.
