Benin palace scandal: Peller finally tells his side

Popular TikTok creator and streamer, Hamzat Habeeb Adelaja, widely known as Peller, has addressed the controversies surrounding his alleged unauthorised visit to the palace of Oba Ewuare II and a N395 million lawsuit filed against him.

Speaking during a livestream, Peller maintained his innocence, insisting that he was not personally responsible for the incidents.

The first controversy stems from his visit to the Benin Palace on March 6, 2026, which the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) described as a violation of palace protocol and a desecration of sacred grounds.

According to the BTC, Peller and his team allegedly entered the palace without official approval, leading to disciplinary measures, including the suspension of a chief, the arrest and prosecution of a palace staff member, and possible sanctions against a queen featured in related content.

The council has also summoned Peller to appear before its committee and issue a written apology, warning of possible legal action if he fails to comply.

Reacting, Peller claimed he acted on his manager’s directive and was unaware of any breach.

“My manager instructed me to go to the Oba of Benin’s palace. I didn’t know anything about the protocols. I greeted everyone respectfully. My hands are clean,” he said.

The second issue involves a N395 million lawsuit filed by Lagos resident, Osarobo Odigie, over an alleged incident at a lounge in Lekki.

In a pre-action notice issued by her lawyers, Peller is accused of defamation, cyber harassment, invasion of privacy, and causing emotional distress after allegedly recording and sharing a video of a confrontation without her consent.

The claimant is seeking N200 million for defamation, N100 million for emotional trauma, N75 million for cyberbullying, and N20 million for legal fees.

Responding, Peller admitted he does not have the financial capacity to meet the demands and appealed for forgiveness, noting that he had previously apologised over the incident.

“I don’t have the money. It feels like people want me to go broke. I’m begging, I’m just a small child that needs guidance,” he said.