Mr P Fires Back at Critics, Defends Controversial Claim That Nigerian Languages Offer Little Value

Nigerian singer Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, has refused to back down after sparking widespread criticism over his comments about Nigerian languages.

The music star has once again defended his position, insisting that indigenous Nigerian languages provide little practical value in today’s global world, despite intense backlash from many Nigerians on social media.

His latest remarks have reignited conversations about the importance of preserving Nigeria’s cultural identity while balancing the growing demand for globally recognized languages.

Mr P Questions the Practical Benefits of Indigenous Languages

The controversy began after Mr P shared a post while spending time in Paris with his family.

The singer revealed that watching his children speak French fluently made him consider buying a home in the French capital.

“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 attracted mixed reactions, with many social media users questioning why his children appeared to be fluent in French but not in their native Igbo language.

Rather than soften his stance, Mr P responded with a series of posts, challenging critics to explain how speaking Nigerian languages creates opportunities in today’s world.

He wrote:

“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?”

His comments immediately fueled even more debate online, with supporters and critics offering sharply different opinions.

Nigerians Divided Over Mr P’s Comments

Many Nigerians argued that indigenous languages are far more than tools for communication.

According to critics, native languages preserve history, traditions, identity, and cultural heritage. Several users warned that abandoning local languages in favor of foreign ones could gradually erase important aspects of Nigeria’s diverse cultures.

Others, however, agreed with Mr P’s argument, saying parents should prioritize languages that improve their children’s chances of succeeding internationally.

The discussion quickly spread across social media, with thousands weighing in on whether practical opportunities should take precedence over cultural preservation.

Comedian Klint Da Drunk Backs Mr P

Veteran comedian Klint Da Drunk, known on social media as Klintoncod, publicly supported Mr P’s position.

According to him, parents should focus on teaching children languages that can create global opportunities.

He argued that many Nigerians eventually relocate abroad, where international languages such as English and French are far more useful than indigenous Nigerian languages.

He added that languages like Igbo or Yoruba are unlikely to create the same level of opportunities internationally unless someone intends to build a career in industries closely tied to those cultures.

Social Media Reactions Continue to Pour In

Despite receiving support from some quarters, many Nigerians remained unconvinced.

One X user, identified as Kalu, questioned whether Mr P’s children could also speak Igbo, suggesting that learning foreign languages should not come at the expense of one’s cultural roots.

The exchange has continued to dominate conversations online, with opinions remaining deeply divided over whether indigenous Nigerian languages should be preserved as a cultural responsibility or viewed mainly through the lens of economic and global opportunities.

As the debate continues, Mr P has shown no indication that he intends to withdraw or apologize for his controversial remarks.