Afrobeats star Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P and one-half of the former music group P-Square, has sparked reactions online after questioning the relevance of Nigerian indigenous languages.
The singer made the comment following a question from a fan who asked if his children could also speak Igbo, after he shared his excitement about their ability to communicate fluently in French.
While on vacation in Paris, France, Okoye revealed that watching his children speak the language with ease has inspired thoughts of owning a home in the city.
“Still in Paris! Watching my kids speak French so effortlessly makes me think… maybe it’s time to own a crib here in Paris,” he wrote on X.
A fan responded by asking, “Hope they can speak Igbo, too?”
Replying to the question, the singer wrote, “And who naija language help? Make I hear word abeg.”
The comment quickly generated controversy, with several Nigerians criticising the singer for appearing to downplay the importance of local languages. Some pointed out that Okoye has previously incorporated Igbo and other Nigerian languages, including Yoruba, into his music, benefiting from their cultural and commercial appeal.
The debate has since continued online, with many fans sharing their opinions on the importance of preserving and promoting Nigeria’s indigenous languages.
