There have been many dramatic splits and reconciliations in the Nigerian music industry, but few have drawn as much attention as the rivalry between the twin brothers Peter and Paul Okoye, collectively known as P-Square.
Their breakup had a profound impact on both their musical careers and the lives of their fans and fellow artists. Numerous well-known people, including politicians and celebrities, have made attempts to mediate and heal the split between the two over the years.
The background of the feud
During the early 2000s, P-Square gained prominence and became one of the most prosperous musical groups in Africa. However, in 2017, a public split caused by internal disputes devastated followers. The brothers parted ways, pursuing independent careers and engaging in public arguments that frequently transpired on social media.
A strong comeback
In 2021, the duo excited the world and their fans with their comeback. After years of a family feud, the duo allowed peace to reign in their family after they were spotted embracing each other in a viral video. The duo went on a tour together and also wowed their fans with their joint performances.
Another split
After their comeback, it did not take long for the pair to split again. Recently, Peter Okoye, better known as Mr. P took to his social media accounts to share yet another rift happening between him and his twin, Paul Okoye, often known as Rudeboy. According to Mr. P, Rudeboy often belittles him, his efforts in the group and also does not give his wife, Lola Omotayo, the respect she deserves.
Rudeboy, though he has refused to say much about the issue, took to his Instagram page to write "ihe neme" which translates to "things are happening." In another post, he sent an emotional message to Mr. P asking if they couldn't be brothers even though they could not be a music duo.
Jude Okoye speaks on rift between his younger brothers
Jude Okoye, the elder brother and former manager of the popular music duo P-Square, announced that he was done trying to mediate the ongoing feud between his younger twin brothers, Peter and Paul Okoye.
According to him, he did everything possible to see to it that they settled their differences but they didn't. Speaking further, he added that prominent people, including governors, ministers, relatives, and chiefs, have attempted to salvage the issue, but Mr. P always 'explodes' when the ruling and submission don't go in his favour.
List of prominent people who have attempted to solve P-Square feud
1. Peter Obi
Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra State and presidential aspirant for the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, has been vocal about the need for unity among Nigerians, particularly in the entertainment sector. Days after news of the duo's split broke, Peter Obi visited Mr. P, Rudeboy and Jude Okoye to emphasize the need for unity between them. His attempts to mediate the Psquare feud highlight his commitment to fostering reconciliation.
Peter Obi publicly expressed his admiration for the duo's talent and urged them to put aside their differences for the sake of their legacy and fans.
2. Atiku Abubakar
Addressing the issue in an Instagram live, Jude Okoye revealed that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also weighed in on the situation, to help maintain calm between the twin brothers.
3. Teni
In the realm of entertainment, singer Teni has also weighed in on the Psquare feud. Taking to her social media page, Teni expressed her devastation at the duo's split stating that it had left her traumatized.
Teni encouraged Psquare to resolve their conflict amicably in a video that was uploaded to her official Instagram profile. She expressed her admiration and concern for the pair. Teni's efforts reflect how younger artists can play a significant role in influencing their predecessors.
4. Yul Edochie
Controversial Nollywood actor and filmmaker Yul Edochie also added his voice to the ongoing feud. According to Yul Edochie, Nigerians should let the duo stay apart if that is what they want. He opined that sometimes having peace of mind, comes from staying apart; hence, they should not be forced to reconcile if it was against their wishes.
5. Charly Boy
Veteran singer Charly Boy has also joined the chorus of voices urging reconciliation. On August 13, 2024, the singer addressed the matter on Instagram, expressing his displeasure with the twin brothers' handling of their problems. It was his intention for them to support and rely on one another.
Fans of Psquare are still hoping for a reunion, and these well-known people show how people from different backgrounds may work together to promote understanding and peace.
GA