Singer Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P of the defunct P-Square music duo, has ignited a nationwide debate after defending his children for speaking French while questioning the practical benefits of Nigerian indigenous languages.
The controversy began after the singer shared a post on X during a family trip to Paris, expressing admiration for how effortlessly his children communicate in French.
In the post, Mr P reflected on the experience and jokingly suggested that it might be time for his family to own a home in the French capital because of how naturally his children spoke the language.
His comment quickly attracted thousands of reactions, with one social media user asking whether his children could also speak Igbo, the language of their heritage.
Responding to the question, Mr P challenged the practical value of Nigerian languages, asking critics to explain how speaking an indigenous language had helped anyone.
The remark immediately divided public opinion, with some Nigerians arguing that indigenous languages are essential for preserving cultural identity, traditions and family heritage.
Others defended the singer, insisting that parents have the right to decide how they raise their children and which languages they choose to teach them.
As criticism intensified, Mr P maintained that decisions regarding his children's upbringing were private family matters that should not be dictated by strangers online.
He advised critics to focus on raising their own children according to their personal values instead of attempting to impose their preferences on other families.
The singer later returned with additional posts, urging people to "mind their business" and insisting that his family's language choices should not be a subject of public debate.
Mr P questioned why so many people were concerned about the languages spoken by his children when, according to him, Nigeria faces far more pressing national challenges.
He further argued that Nigeria's official language is English, suggesting that many critics were focusing on the wrong issues instead of discussing matters affecting the country's development.
The music star also claimed that many of those criticising him would gladly relocate abroad and raise their own children outside Nigeria if presented with the opportunity.
His comments generated mixed reactions across social media platforms, with supporters applauding his emphasis on parental freedom while opponents accused him of undervaluing Nigeria's rich linguistic heritage.
Language experts have long argued that bilingual and multilingual children can benefit academically, socially and culturally by learning both international and indigenous languages.
Nigeria is home to more than 500 indigenous languages, making it one of the world's most linguistically diverse countries, with languages serving as important symbols of identity and cultural continuity.
Many cultural advocates believe parents should encourage children living abroad to maintain connections with their roots by learning their native languages alongside widely spoken international languages.
Others, however, argue that in an increasingly globalised world, parents should retain the freedom to prioritise languages they believe will create greater educational and career opportunities for their children.
The debate has once again highlighted the ongoing conversation about balancing cultural preservation with global competitiveness in raising children within multicultural families.
Although opinions remain sharply divided, Mr P has made it clear that he has no intention of changing his family's language choices, insisting that the responsibility for raising his children belongs solely to him and his family.