Singer Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, has apologised for his controversial “Naija language” remark that sparked backlash on social media.
The former P-Square member said he never intended to insult the Igbo language or Nigerian culture, adding that he takes responsibility for how his words were received.
The controversy began after Mr P posted that hearing his children speak fluent French during a trip to Paris made him consider buying a house there.
When an X user asked if his children could also speak Igbo, he replied, “And who naija language help? Make I hear word abeg.”
The comment drew criticism from Nigerians who accused him of belittling indigenous languages and their cultural importance.
In an apology posted on X on Wednesday, Mr P said: “If my response to ‘Who Naija language help?’ upset some people, I apologise and take full responsibility for my words. That doesn’t mean I hate Nigerian languages or our culture.”
He maintained that he was referring generally to Nigerian languages and did not specifically target Igbo.
Mr P also accused an unnamed individual of exploiting the controversy to damage his reputation, saying he would no longer remain silent over repeated attacks.
“No more Mr. Nice Guy. It’s aura for aura, Egusi for Egusi, Oha for Oha,” he declared.
