Nigerian singer Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, has apologised to Nigerians following widespread criticism over his controversial remark questioning the relevance of Nigerian languages.
The former PSquare member came under fire after responding to a follower on X with the statement, “Who Naija language help?”, a comment many social media users interpreted as dismissive of indigenous languages and cultural identity.
The remark triggered intense backlash online, with critics accusing the singer of belittling Nigeria’s linguistic heritage. Initially, Peter dismissed the criticism, telling detractors to ignore his opinion.
“Again and again. Who Nigerian language help? If e pain you, go hit your head for wall,” he had written.
However, amid the growing outrage, the singer reversed his stance and issued a public apology on Wednesday, acknowledging that his words had offended many people.
“If my response to ‘Who Naija language help?’ upset some people, I apologise and take full responsibility for my words. That does not mean I hate our Nigerian languages or culture.”
Peter also rejected claims that he specifically criticised the Igbo language, insisting his comment referred broadly to Nigeria’s many indigenous languages and was misrepresented by some social media users.
“At no point did I say I hate the Igbo language or Igbo culture. I said ‘Naija language,’ referring to the different languages in Nigeria, but some individuals twisted it and made it seem like I specifically mentioned Igbo. I didn’t,” he stated.
