Nigerian singer Peter Okoye, widely known as Mr P and one-half of the famous P-Square duo, has opened up about his decision to part ways with his twin brother and music partner, Paul Okoye, also known as Rudeboy.
In a recent interview with Cool FM in Lagos, Mr P spoke candidly about the reasons behind the separation. He emphasised that while many fans may not fully understand, he and his brother made the best decision for themselves and their careers.
“Going solo brings joy”
“There’s a joy that comes with going solo,” Mr P said during the radio chat. “Please respect our decisions. We’ve tried it, it’s not working.”
His comments came months after Paul Okoye confirmed that the popular duo had split again. The brothers, who first went their separate ways in 2016, reunited in 2021 to the delight of fans worldwide. However, the reunion was short-lived.
In August 2023, Paul revealed that the pair had decided to stop working together. Since then, both artists have returned to solo careers.
A history of breakups and reunions
P-Square, one of Nigeria’s most successful music groups, rose to fame in the early 2000s. With hit songs like “Do Me,” “Personally,” and “No One Like You,” the twin brothers quickly became household names across Africa and beyond.
But behind the scenes, things weren’t always smooth. The group first broke up in 2016 following a long stretch of tension, both personal and professional. For years, fans speculated about the reasons, citing differences in lifestyle, business, and creative direction.
The brothers later reconciled in 2021, promising a fresh start. They even released new music together and went on tour, sparking hope that the P-Square magic was back for good.
Unfortunately, the reunion didn’t last.
Why did the split happen again
Mr P explained that staying together as a group became difficult. Despite their best efforts, he said, things just didn’t work out the way they hoped.
“There were things we both had to deal with individually,” he said. “We gave it our best shot. But sometimes, it’s better to go your separate ways and stay happy.”
He added that both he and Paul are focused on their happiness, health, and personal growth. “Music is important, but peace of mind comes first,” he noted.
Fans react
News of the latest split has left fans divided. While some continue to hope for another reunion, others have shown support for the brothers’ solo careers.
Social media users have shared mixed reactions. Some expressed sadness over the breakup of one of Africa’s most iconic music duos. Others praised the artists for choosing their well-being over pressure from the industry.
“They gave us so much good music over the years,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “If this is what they need to be happy, we should support them.”
Solo careers take shape
Since returning to solo work, both Mr P and Rudeboy have stayed active in the music scene.
Mr P has released several singles and continues to perform across the continent. His style blends Afrobeats, R&B, and pop, and he often includes energetic dance routines in his shows.
Paul, on the other hand, has maintained a slower, more soulful style as Rudeboy. His music often focuses on love, heartbreak, and social themes. He, too, has built a strong fan base on his own.
Both singers have proven they can stand alone, even without the P-Square brand.
No bad blood
Despite going their separate ways, Mr P made it clear that there’s no animosity between him and his brother.
“We’re not fighting,” he said. “People assume there’s always war when groups split, but that’s not true. We’re just doing what’s best for us.”
He urged fans to support both of them individually and not take sides.
“Whether it’s Mr P or Rudeboy, it’s still love,” he added.
Looking ahead
As Mr P and Rudeboy continue their solo journeys, one thing remains certain: their legacy as P-Square is secure. They’ve left a mark on the Nigerian music industry and helped shape the global Afrobeats sound.
While fans may miss the powerful duo, both brothers seem content with their choices and ready to write the next chapter of their music careers.
Read Also: Seyi Law criticises P-Square over political stance, accuses duo of hypocrisy
