Popular TikTok creator and livestreamer, Hamzat Habeeb Adelaja, widely known as Peller, has responded to two major controversies involving an unauthorised visit to the palace of the Oba Ewuare II and a N395 million lawsuit, insisting he bears no personal responsibility in both cases.
The social media personality clarified that his presence at the Benin royal palace in Benin City earlier this month was based on instructions from his manager, stressing that he was unaware of any breach of protocol at the time.
He maintained that he conducted himself respectfully throughout the visit and only became aware of the controversy afterwards.
Peller further stated that he had no intention of disrespecting the revered institution, describing the situation as a misunderstanding that has since escalated beyond his control. He added that he remains open to addressing concerns raised by the palace authorities.
The incident, which occurred on March 6, 2026, during Peller’s nationwide tour, has drawn sharp criticism from the Benin Traditional Council (BTC). The council described the unauthorised entry into the palace as a serious violation of cultural and traditional protocols, as well as a desecration of sacred grounds.
In response, the BTC initiated disciplinary measures against individuals linked to the breach. An implicated chief has been placed on indefinite suspension, while a palace staff member, identified as Mr Omuemu, has reportedly been detained and charged to court by the Nigeria Police.
In addition, a queen who appeared in related content is currently under investigation, with possible sanctions that could include removal from the palace in line with Benin customs.
The council has also summoned Peller to appear before a committee of chiefs to explain his actions and submit a written apology. It warned that failure to comply could attract legal consequences.
Addressing the matter during a livestream, Peller insisted that he merely followed instructions given by his management team.
“My manager instructed me to go to the Oba of Benin’s palace. I was unaware until he informed me that they wanted me there. Any consequences should be handled by him. I did nothing wrong; my hands are clean. When I arrived, I greeted everyone, including children, with respect. Everything now seems orchestrated,” he said.
Alongside the palace controversy, Peller is also facing a N395 million lawsuit filed by a Lagos-based resident, Osarobo Odigie.
The legal action stems from an incident that allegedly occurred on January 6, 2026, at a lounge in Lekki, where the content creator was accused of recording and sharing a video of a confrontation without consent.
According to a pre-action letter issued by her legal representatives, the suit includes claims of defamation, cyber harassment, invasion of privacy and emotional distress. The claimant alleged that the viral video led to widespread harassment and damage to her reputation.
Reacting to the lawsuit, Peller stated that he does not have the financial capacity to meet the demands, which include N200 million for defamation, N100 million for emotional trauma, N75 million for cyberbullying and distress, and N20 million for legal fees.
He reiterated that he had previously apologised over the incident and appealed again for forgiveness.
“I don’t have the money to give to the woman suing me. It feels like everyone wants me to go broke just so I can be on Lucky Udu’s show. I’m begging, I’m just a small child in this, and a child cannot function without direction. I have even apologised to her before,” he said.
The dual controversies have continued to generate reactions across social media, with discussions centred on accountability, cultural respect and the responsibilities of digital content creators in Nigeria’s evolving media landscape.
