The world of music has seen numerous iconic duos, but few have been as influential as PSquare, the Nigerian music group consisting of twin brothers Peter Okoye, known as Mr. P, and Paul Okoye, also known as Rudeboy. For years, PSquare was synonymous with hits that dominated charts not just in Africa, but across the globe. Their unique blend of Afrobeat and contemporary pop, coupled with their synchronized dance moves, made them a household name. However, behind the curtain of fame and success, the bond between the brothers has frayed, leading to a public fallout that has left fans disheartened.
In a recent Instagram Live session, Paul Okoye (Rudeboy) made a heartfelt appeal to his twin brother, Peter Okoye (Mr. P), urging him to maintain their brotherly bond despite their decision to no longer make music together as PSquare. Rudeboy’s plea came just days after Mr. P accused him of being self-centered and taking sole credit for PSquare’s success, a claim that has added fuel to the ongoing tension between the two.
“Even if we don’t continue with PSquare, can’t we still be brothers?” Rudeboy questioned during the live session. His words were laden with emotion as he further added, “Even if we can’t make music together, can’t we at least be brothers? It’s unfortunate.” This plea was not just a call for reconciliation but a reflection of the deep emotional turmoil that both brothers are experiencing.
The tension between the two became more apparent after Mr. P penned an open letter to Rudeboy, expressing his disappointment in what he perceives as his brother’s disregard for his contributions to the group. In the letter, Mr. P made it clear that he does not see himself in competition with Rudeboy, but feels hurt by the latter’s repeated discrediting of his efforts. Mr. P pointed out that Rudeboy has consistently claimed to have written and sung 99% of all PSquare songs, dismissing Mr. P’s contributions, including his work on the hit song “EjeaJo” featuring TI, which he wrote.
“My dear brother Paul, as I’ve told you several times, I am not competing with you or anyone else. However, it’s disheartening to see you repeatedly discredit my efforts in the group we both built together during your interviews,” Mr. P wrote. He also expressed his frustration with Rudeboy’s habit of using YouTube views and other metrics to undermine his contributions, ignoring the collaborative effort that made PSquare successful.
Mr. P’s letter further delved into the history of their collaboration, highlighting other hits like “Get-Squared,” “Bizzy Body,” “Personally,” and “Alingo,” among others. He emphasized that the magic of PSquare was not about who sang or danced the most, but about their combined effort and unity. “PSquare was a force because of our uniqueness and unity,” he stated, lamenting that Rudeboy’s recent actions have turned Africa’s most awarded and decorated music group into a source of ridicule.
The public nature of their dispute has left fans and industry insiders alike questioning the future of PSquare. The group, once a symbol of brotherhood and musical excellence, now stands divided. The rift between the brothers is not just a personal issue but a loss to the music world that celebrated their chemistry and talent.
As the twins continue to navigate their differences, one can only hope that they find a way to reconcile, not just as artists but as brothers. The bond they share is one that goes beyond music, and while the future of PSquare remains uncertain, the possibility of mending their relationship offers a glimmer of hope. The story of PSquare is a reminder that behind the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry, lies the complex and often painful reality of personal relationships.
