Peller’s Benin Palace Drama

Content creator Peller is embroiled in a N395m lawsuit and controversy following a visit to the Benin Palace.

The visit of popular Nigerian TikTok influencer, Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, known as Peller, to the palace of the Oba of Benin in Edo State in March 2026 caused a major controversy. The Benin Traditional Council (BTC) deemed the visit unauthorized, sparking serious consequences for individuals involved, including the suspension of a chief, the arrest of a staff member, and disciplinary proceedings against a Queen. 

On March 6, 2026, Peller, who was on a nationwide tour, visited the palace in Benin City to create content, where he was filmed greeting people, receiving gifts from a queen, and interacting with staff.

The BTC issued a statement saying Peller gained access without proper approval and engaged in acts described as a "desecration of the sacred precincts" and a "breach of protocol

Queen Ewuare publicly disputed the council’s claim that the visit was unauthorized. She shared a letter on her social media, showing a stamp from the Benin Traditional Council (dated February 23, 2026), suggesting the visit was previously communicated.

The BTC countered, stating that simply submitting a letter and having it stamped does not constitute official permission to enter the royal residence, insisting the event was an “abominable” violation. 

Following the visit, a chief involved in allowing Peller inside was suspended indefinitely. A palace staff member, identified as Mr. Omuemu, was reportedly arrested by the Nigeria Police Force for aiding the breach of peace.

The queen who welcomed Peller (Queen Ewuare) has been subjected to disciplinary proceedings, with reports suggesting potential removal from the palace.

The council instructed Peller to appear before them, apologize in writing, and warned of further legal action if he failed to comply. 

Peller’s Reaction

Claims of Innocence: Peller stated that he did not believe he acted maliciously and described the visit as a respectful attempt to promote the local culture.

Financial Distress Claims: In addition to the palace incident, Peller is facing a separate N395 million lawsuit for an unrelated incident of alleged defamation and harassment. He has stated that these events feel like an orchestrated attempt to ruin him financially, noting he is "just a small child" in need of guidance, not an intentional troublemaker.

As of late March 2026, the situation remains a major talking point on Nigerian social media, with the BTC maintaining a strict stance on the sanctity of the Oba’s palace.