In a recent interview, Nigerian musician and activist Seun Kuti expressed his disappointment with the popular music duo P-Square, comprised of twin brothers Peter and Paul Okoye. Kuti did not hold back in his critique, focusing on the brothers’ public disputes, business ventures, and the broader implications of equating talent with intelligence.
Kuti began by acknowledging the talent of P-Square but was quick to criticize their behavior and decisions. “P-Square are talented, but they failed on all levels. Talent and fame are not intelligence. Twin brothers who will be fighting and disgracing themselves over money aren’t a good example to anyone,” he stated. Kuti’s remarks highlight his disapproval of the duo’s public disagreements and the negative image they project.
He was particularly critical of Peter Okoye, comparing him to a “fake pastor” for his involvement in the gambling business. Kuti expressed concern over the impact of such ventures on young Nigerians, saying, “Peter Okoye doesn’t care about his fans. He’s basically like a fake pastor who will tell you that bringing N50 will get you N10 million, bringing N100 will get you N20 million. Peter Okoye getting into the gambling business and knowing how much this has affected young Nigerian youths, to me, is stupidity. I was shocked when he was hailing a boy who stole his mother’s money to play his Zoom Games.”
Kuti went on to label P-Square as “charlatans,” suggesting that they are willing to do anything for money. “P-Square failed at all levels; they’re degenerates,” he declared, emphasizing his belief that the duo’s actions do not set a good example for their fans.
In a broader critique of the public’s perception of talent and intelligence, Kuti argued that many people mistakenly equate the two. “You people need to understand that talent is not knowledge; there are many talented people in this world who are stupid. We Black people always use talent to rate intelligence. In Africa, when you’re talented, you’re suddenly intelligent. When you’re famous, you’re intelligent,” he observed. Kuti used Jay-Z as an example, questioning the long-term success of his business ventures like Tidal. “Jay-Z told you people that he’s a business mogul, and you all believed him because he’s talented. Where are any of his businesses today? Where is Tidal, which he said would take over the world?” he asked.
Kuti expressed his disappointment in P-Square’s inability to maintain a private and respectful relationship, particularly in the public eye. “I’m so ashamed of P-Square; imagine twin brothers that will be fighting themselves over money, chasing each other out of the house, and not even being able to keep it secret. How do you feel looking up to people who will come online and insult themselves, insult their wives, and disgrace themselves and their families because of money?” he questioned.
Seun Kuti’s candid remarks highlight his disappointment with P-Square and raise important questions about the responsibilities of public figures, the true value of talent, and the often misguided idolization of fame. His comments serve as a reminder to critically evaluate the actions and influence of celebrities, regardless of their talents or public personas.
