KlintonCod backs Peter Okoye, says French and English will open more doors than Nigerian languages

• KlintonCod has defended Peter Okoye’s controversial remarks on Nigerian languages, arguing that English and French provide more opportunities for children in a globalised world than indigenous languages.
• The controversy began after Peter Okoye came under heavy criticism for questioning the practical value of Nigerian languages.
• While on a family trip to Paris, the singer celebrated his children’s fluency in French. When a social media user asked if they could also speak Igbo, he replied:

Comedian KlintonCod has thrown his weight behind singer Peter Okoye (Mr P) amid the ongoing debate over the importance of Nigerian languages, arguing that globally recognised languages such as English and French offer children greater opportunities than indigenous languages.

The controversy began after Peter Okoye came under heavy criticism for questioning the practical value of Nigerian languages. While on a family trip to Paris, the singer celebrated his children’s fluency in French. When a social media user asked if they could also speak Igbo, he replied:

“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 comments sparked widespread debate, with many accusing him of downplaying Nigeria’s indigenous languages and cultural heritage.

Joining the conversation, KlintonCod revealed that he has repeatedly disagreed with his father over the issue, saying he would rather his children become fluent in English and French than in Igbo.

“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, 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 artistry.

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.”

His remarks have further divided opinions online, with some agreeing that global languages provide more career opportunities, while others argued that children can learn both foreign and indigenous languages without sacrificing their cultural identity.

Reactions trail KlintonCod’s comments

Callhim Pope Trayson wrote, “Language na language. It has been here since our ancestors, una just dey drag this matter like say na the most important thing right now to trend.”

Mhiz Billionz Pride commented, “Who be this one.”

Asiwaju WA wrote, “In the same way that speaking Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, and other Nigerian languages is opening doors for foreigners, visit the University of Ibadan and see how foreigners are learning our languages.”

Chi Bu Ikem reacted, “‘Olodo uprising.”

Reuben Ikechukwu Nwajiaku wrote, “What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world and loose his soul??”

David Ochiama commented, “Nigerians love feeling bigger than they actually are. Igbo language and most Nigerian languages aren’t even spoken in rooms and industries that affect our daily lives so why are we so worried over kids not being able to speak their native languages??”

Usiomo Peter Agbonselobho added, “If the government did d right thing, I don’t think people would talk like dis….”

Chukwuebuka Ndidiamaka Onyemaechi Nwabueze wrote, “The inferiority complex has really dealth with us in Africa.”

King Jamaal said, “That is y I like the yoruba race, they dont joke with their language.”

Bàdést Bøï commented, “Normally igbo people na hypocrite them be, and them say dey want rule Nigeria 😂😂 If I talk now them go come for me 😭😂.”