Nigerian music star Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, has responded strongly to critics following widespread reactions to his decision to stop celebrating the birthday date long associated with his twin brother, Paul Okoye.
The singer stirred conversations across social media on Monday after announcing that he would now celebrate his birthday on November 30 instead of November 18, the date both brothers had publicly shared for years as twins.
The announcement quickly generated mixed reactions online, with many fans and observers questioning the reason behind the move. Some critics also challenged his continued use of the “Square” identity in his professional branding despite the prolonged feud and repeated breakup of the famous music duo, Peter Okoye.
However, in a series of posts on his X account, Mr P defended his position, insisting that he has every right to determine his identity and make personal decisions without outside interference.
According to him, the criticism stems from people being uncomfortable with his independence and ownership of the brand he helped build.
“Exactly why some of y’all are pained. I discovered the name, I earned it, and now I own it. It’s a game of chess. Remember, we are still in court even as of yesterday. With time, you’ll understand,” he wrote.
The statement appears to reference the lingering legal disagreements involving the brothers and their former business arrangements.
Mr P also used the opportunity to make fresh allegations of betrayal and financial misconduct against members of his family, suggesting that long-standing internal issues had remained hidden from the public for many years.
“We were not blood when they were stealing from me. We were not blood when they were creating false narratives about me.
“Now that I’ve uncovered the betrayal that has been going on for over 20 years, suddenly we’re blood? No, it doesn’t work like that. Forgiveness doesn’t mean accessibility,” he stated.
Though he did not mention names directly, the remarks are widely believed to be aimed at his twin brother and elder brother, Jude Okoye, who previously managed the group’s affairs.
In another response to a social media user who questioned whether their late parents would support the ongoing public family conflict, Mr P maintained that protecting his emotional well-being remains his priority.
He said family ties should not be used to justify toxic relationships or repeated disrespect.
“Even if my parents were alive and supported this kind of betrayal, I’d still choose to step back, cut them off, and protect my peace. Boundaries are necessary. Blood isn’t thicker than my peace of mind,” he wrote.
The singer further stated that at his current stage in life, he has earned the right to prioritise peace over family obligations that have become harmful.
“They’re only emotional because the group is no more. Yes, I’m 40 plus, and I’ve earned the right to protect my peace over toxic family members who betrayed and disrespected me. No apologies. Love me or hate me, I do not care,” he added.
Mr P also reflected more broadly on the meaning of family, arguing that biological connection alone is not enough to sustain healthy relationships.
According to him, true family is built on loyalty, trust, respect, and love rather than blood ties alone.
“One of the biggest lies ever told is that blood makes you family. Blood makes you related. Loyalty, love, and trust make you family,” the singer said.
The latest exchange adds another chapter to the long-running conflict surrounding one of Africa’s most celebrated music groups.
P-Square, made up of Peter and Paul Okoye, officially formed in 1997 and began pursuing music professionally around 1999. Over the years, the duo rose to continental and international fame with hit songs, sold-out tours, and numerous awards.
Their success helped shape modern Afrobeats and pop music across Africa, making them one of the most commercially successful groups of their generation.
However, the brothers first officially split in 2017 following disagreements reportedly linked to management issues and the role of their elder brother Jude in the business structure of the group.
That separation shocked fans and effectively ended a dominant era in African music.
After several years apart, the brothers reconciled in November 2021. Their reunion was widely celebrated by supporters, with many seeing it as the return of a legendary partnership.
They were later seen together publicly and performed at concerts, renewing hopes of a lasting comeback.
But the reconciliation proved short-lived.
In 2024, Paul Okoye confirmed that the duo had once again gone separate ways. He also alleged at the time that his twin brother had a role in his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Peter Okoye later raised concerns about alleged irregularities in their previous management operations, leading to renewed public accusations and a deepening legal dispute within the family.
Those developments appear to have further damaged any possibility of another reunion in the near future.
As of the time of this report, Paul Okoye has not publicly responded to Mr P’s latest comments or the controversy surrounding the birthday change.
The public fallout has continued to attract widespread attention, largely because of the brothers’ historic influence on the Nigerian entertainment industry and the emotional attachment many fans still have to the P-Square brand.
For many supporters, the latest dispute signals that reconciliation may remain difficult unless unresolved personal and business grievances are fully addressed.
Despite the controversy, Mr P’s latest statements make clear that he is focused on maintaining personal boundaries and moving forward on his own terms.
Whether the brothers eventually reconcile again remains uncertain, but for now, the long-standing rift within one of Nigeria’s most iconic music families appears far from over.
