Nigerian singer Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, has faulted critics following backlash over his decision to change his long-shared birthday with twin brother Paul Okoye.

The former member of the defunct P-Square got many talking on Monday after announcing that he will now celebrate his birthday on November 30 instead of November 18 – a date the brothers had shared as their birthday.

The move quickly drew criticism across social media, with some users questioning why he still retains the “Square” in his profile name. Others described the decision as an extreme response amid the rift with his brother.

But in a series of posts on his X handle, Mr P defended the move, arguing for ownership of his identity and hinting at unresolved legal disputes.

“Exactly why some of y’all are pained. I discovered the name, I earned it, and now I own it. It’s a game of chess. Remember, we are still in court even as of yesterday! With time, you’ll understand. Una go dey alright las las,” he wrote.

The singer also accused his brothers of betrayal and financial misconduct.

“We were not ‘blood’ when they were stealing from me. We were not ‘blood’ when they were creating false narratives about me.

“Now that I’ve uncovered the betrayal that has been going on for over 20 years, suddenly we’re blood? No… it doesn’t work like that. Forgiveness doesn’t mean accessibility. Again! Una go dey alright,” he added.

In another response to an X user who questioned whether their late parents would approve of the feud, Mr P maintained that his priority is personal well-being.

“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.

“They’re only emotional because the group is no more. Yes, I’m 40+, and I’ve earned the right to protect my peace over toxic family members who betrayed and disrespected me. No apologies. Love me or hate me, I do not care,” the songwriter posted

He also reminisced on his personal beliefs about family, offering a deeper reflection on what truly defines meaningful relationships beyond biological ties.

According to the singer, shared ‘blood’ is not enough to sustain a genuine connection, especially in the absence of mutual respect and honesty.

“One of the biggest lies ever told is that blood makes you family. Blood makes you related. Loyalty, love, and trust make you family,” the ‘Winning’ crooner sai

The brothers, who officially formed their music group in 1997 and started pursuing a professional career around 1999, first parted ways in 2017 following disagreements over their elder brother Jude Okoye’s role in their management.

Their split marked the end of one of Africa’s most successful music partnerships at the time.

After years of separation, the duo reconciled in November 2021, reuniting publicly and performing together at a concert weeks later, a move that was widely celebrated by fans.

However, the reunion was short-lived. In 2024, Paul Okoye confirmed that the group had once again gone their separate ways, alleging that his twin brother was involved in his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Peter Okoye subsequently raised concerns about alleged irregularities in their former management structure, triggering renewed public exchanges and a deepening legal dispute within the family.

His brother, Paul Okoye, has yet to comment on the matter as of the time of this report. (Channels TV)

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