Benin Traditional Council has summoned popular TikToker Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, known as Peller, after an unauthorised visit to the Oba of Benin Palace and warned that a queen featured in his video now faces disciplinary proceedings that could lead to her removal.
The influencer gained entry to the sacred palace on March 6 without permission from the council during a nationwide tour, recorded a live video, and interacted loudly with palace officials, a prince and a princess.
Council secretary Frank Irabor described the incident as a “serious breach of protocol” that caused “significant embarrassment and a breach of the peace within the palace grounds.”
He confirmed that a queen who appeared in Peller’s content is now under investigation: “In accordance with Benin traditions and customs, these proceedings may result in her removal from the palace.”
The council has demanded that Peller appear immediately before a committee of chiefs and submit a written apology. “Failure to comply with this directive will leave the council with no option but to pursue legal action,” Irabor warned.
A palace staff member, Omuemu, has already been detained by police and charged with causing a breach of the peace for allegedly aiding the unauthorised entry.
The Benin Palace is regarded as a sacred institution governed by ancient customs, where public access is strictly controlled. Peller has not yet responded to the summons.
