Popular TikTok content creator Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, widely known as Peller, has finally spoken out following the controversy surrounding his unauthorised visit to the palace of Oba Ewuare II.
The visit, which took place on March 6, had earlier drawn strong criticism from the Benin Traditional Council, which described the incident as a serious violation of long-standing palace protocols and traditions. The council stressed that access to the palace is highly regulated and that any breach is treated with utmost seriousness.
In the aftermath of the incident, disciplinary measures were taken within the palace structure. Reports confirmed that a chief was suspended, while a palace staff member is currently facing prosecution over their alleged role in facilitating the unauthorised access.
Reacting during a live broadcast, Peller distanced himself from the situation, insisting that he should not be held responsible for what transpired. According to him, the visit was arranged on the instructions of his management team, and he simply followed their directive without questioning it.
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He explained that he was unaware of the strict protocols guiding visits to the palace at the time and maintained that he conducted himself respectfully throughout the visit. Peller also suggested that the backlash that followed seemed organised, implying that the criticism may have been amplified beyond the actual incident.
Despite his defence, the Benin Traditional Council has summoned him to appear before a committee of chiefs. He has also been directed to submit a formal written apology. The council warned that failure to comply with these directives could result in further action, including possible legal consequences.
In a separate but related issue, Peller also addressed a lawsuit filed against him by a Lagos-based resident, Osarobo Odigie. The suit, reportedly valued at ₦395 million, accuses him of defamation, cyber harassment, and invasion of privacy. The allegations stem from a viral video said to have been recorded at a lounge in Lekki.
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Responding to the legal action, Peller appealed for understanding and leniency, stating that he does not have the financial means to meet such a heavy claim. He noted that he had already issued an apology over the incident and described the lawsuit as an attempt to put him under financial pressure.
The situation continues to generate mixed reactions online, with some calling for accountability while others sympathise with the influencer, highlighting the growing tension between digital content creation and respect for cultural institutions.
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