Okoye family rift not caused by women: Mr P

Nigerian music star and former P-Square member, Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, has dismissed suggestions that a woman influenced the renewed rift within the Okoye family, insisting the dispute is rooted in long-standing internal disagreements over loyalty, trust, and management of their music empire.

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Peter Okoye

Nigerian music star and former P-Square member, Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, has dismissed suggestions that a woman influenced the renewed rift within the Okoye family, insisting the dispute is rooted in long-standing internal disagreements over loyalty, trust, and management of their music empire.

In a series of posts shared on Wednesday via his X handle, Mr P rejected what he described as a growing public narrative linking women to the family’s breakdown, stating, “Before you drag any woman into this! No woman directed or advised anyone to steal from what I worked for over the years. Stop pushing that narrative to suit your agenda.”

He maintained that the issues predated marriages within the family, adding, “None of us were even married 20-something years ago when this whole betrayal and stealing started! I said what I said.”

The singer, who has repeatedly spoken about distancing himself from family members over alleged betrayal, said he has chosen to prioritise his wellbeing despite public criticism.

“Yes, it’s painful. And yes, it’s my loss. But no one should keep reminding me that I was betrayed and used by my own blood for over 20 years plus,” he wrote.

He added that setting boundaries became necessary for his mental health, saying, “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.”

Mr P also confirmed that the dispute remains unresolved and has moved into the legal space, stating, “Now that I’ve uncovered the betrayal that has been going on for over 20 years plus, suddenly we’re blood? No… it doesn’t work like that. We are still in court!”

The comments come amid renewed attention on the long-running crisis within the Okoye family, involving P-Square members Peter and Paul Okoye and their elder brother, Jude Okoye, marked by repeated splits, reconciliations, and fresh disputes over time.

P-Square, once one of Africa’s most successful music groups, first broke up in 2017 following disagreements over management control, finances, and creative direction.

The duo reunited in 2021 to public excitement, but the reconciliation later collapsed as tensions resurfaced over financial transparency and control of their music catalogue.

The family dispute has also extended into the legal space, with Jude Okoye facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over alleged money laundering and diversion of royalties—charges he has denied. The matter is currently before the Lagos State High Court, with proceedings ongoing and adjourned to May 15, 2026.

Recent court proceedings have also drawn attention, including Mr P’s admission that he is a co-signatory to the Northside Entertainment Limited account. This development adds another layer to the ongoing legal and family dispute.

The PUNCH