Nigerian singer Peter Okoye has reacted to critics who questioned his age after releasing his new song, I Can’t Look Away.
The conversation was said to have started on social media when a woman replied to the singer’s latest release, “I don’t understand why an almost 50-year-old man is still singing like this. “It’s fine to retire.”
The comment attracted reactions from fans and celebrities including media personality Do2dtun popularly known as Dotun.
To defend Peter, he cited a number of international music stars who are still going strong despite their age.
“Celine Dion is 58 years old, Shakira is 49 years old, Beyoncé is 44, Busta Rhymes 54, Bruce Springsteen is 76, Lionel Richie is 76 and the oldest Backstreet Boy is 54,” Dotun said.
All of them still perform and entertain audiences around the world, he added, saying Peter’s age should not be used against him.
Reacting to the criticism, Peter thanked Dotun for his support and made mockery of the latest criticism against him.
“No me increase fuel price for Naija. “Frustration dey everywhere but somehow na Mr P dem wan blame,” he wrote.
The singer said critics had previously claimed he had no talent and no singing ability before moving on to his age.
“After dem don see say all those narratives no make sense, dem come with another one: ‘Now he is too old to be singing and dancing,’” he said.
Peter also said that many of the same people who are criticizing him celebrate international stars such as Usher, Beyonce and Chris Brown for doing similar performances.
The singer further defended his achievements by saying, “Make una help me name any artiste wey dey sing, dance, perform at the highest level, still plays multiple musical instruments, and still get music certificate. Just Peter Okoye.”
He said his name deserves respect and hinted that some of the criticism is coming from fans who are still not happy with the breakup of P-Square.
“One thing for sure most of these people na PSQUARE heartbroken fans, and honestly I understand their feelings. Them go dey okay las las. Nothing is permanent. Things change. Respect our decision and move on,’ he said.
On his solo career, Peter said it was one of the best things he ever did.
And this solo trip? “It’s one of the best things that’s ever happened in my life and I honestly don’t care what anyone thinks,” he said.
