Peter Okoye Denies Attacking Igbo Language, Apologises to Nigerians

Nigerian music star, Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, has apologised to Nigerians following the backlash that trailed his controversial “Who Naija language help?” comment on social media.

The singer had earlier questioned the value of Nigerian languages while responding to a follower on X, a remark that sparked widespread criticism online.

Amid the outrage, Peter initially dismissed his critics, writing: “Again and again. Who Nigerian language help? If e pain you, go hit your head for wall.”

However, he later reversed his position and issued a public apology on Wednesday, saying he regretted his choice of words.

“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,” he wrote.

Peter also denied targeting the Igbo language, explaining that his comment referred to Nigeria’s many indigenous languages in general.

“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.

The apology comes after days of criticism from social media users who accused the singer of disrespecting Nigeria’s linguistic and cultural heritage.