Content creator Klinton Cod has publicly defended singer Peter Okoye following the backlash over the musician’s comments about the value of speaking Nigerian languages.
The debate started after Peter, popularly known as one half of the defunct P-Square duo, revealed on X that his children speak French fluently. A social media user then questioned whether his children could also speak their native Igbo language.
Responding to the criticism, Peter wrote:
“Again and again… who has speaking a Nigerian language helped?
“The official language of Nigeria is English, yet this is what you’re worried about?
“Una never ready. The joke is on you.”
His remarks quickly divided opinion online, with some supporting his stance and others arguing that preserving indigenous languages is an important part of cultural identity.
Joining the conversation, Klinton Cod said he shares Peter’s perspective, revealing that he has had similar disagreements with his own father over the languages his children speak.
According to him:
“Crazy thing is I have argued this with my own father a thousand times. They are always pissed my kids speak French and English but not Igbo, and my response is simple.
“The world is progressing but Nigeria regresses on a daily basis. Most people are running away from the country and 10 out of 10 times they will not use Igbo for anything in a white man’s land. Speaking French and English, or any globally recognised language, will open far better doors for your kids than Igbo or Yoruba will, unless they have plans to become Igbo or Yoruba movie actors or artistes.”
Klinton, however, clarified that his position is not against indigenous languages. He said that if given the opportunity, he would still teach his children Igbo, but believes globally spoken languages should take priority because of the opportunities they can provide later in life.
He added:
“Now it doesn’t mean if I have the opportunity to teach them Igbo I wouldn’t, but I will prioritise a language that will help their lives in adulthood than anything else.”
Reaffirming his support for Peter, Klinton concluded:
“Dear @PeterPsquare, on the kids language conversation, walai I am 100% with you on it, everyone can go f*ck themselves.”
