 |
| Image: Google |
The Benin Traditional Council has taken decisive action following the controversial visit of TikTok personality Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, warning that a queen within the palace may face removal over her alleged involvement in the incident.
In an official statement issued by the council’s Secretary, Frank Irabor, the March 6 visit was described as a serious breach of palace protocol and a violation of long-standing customs governing the revered institution.
According to the council, Peller and members of his entourage gained entry into the palace without proper authorisation, an act that reportedly disrupted order and undermined the sanctity of the historic seat of the Oba of Benin.
“The Benin Traditional Council wishes to address the public regarding a serious breach of protocol and desecration of the sacred precincts of the Palace, which occurred on Friday, March 6, 2026.
“The council confirms that an individual, Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, a social media influencer popularly known as ‘Peller,’ gained unauthorised access to the palace premises on the said date.
“Mr Adelaja and his entourage entered the palace without the requisite permission from the council, and their subsequent conduct caused significant embarrassment and a breach of the peace within the palace grounds,” the statement read.
The council emphasised that the Benin Palace is not an ordinary public space but a sacred institution governed by centuries-old traditions and strict protocols that must be respected at all times.
“The Benin Traditional Council views this incident with the utmost gravity. The palace is not a public thoroughfare or a location for frivolous content creation; it is the ancient and spiritual seat of the Oba of Benin, governed by centuries of tradition, custom, and sacred protocols,” the statement added.
Following a preliminary investigation into the matter, the council confirmed that disciplinary actions have already been taken against individuals believed to have facilitated the unauthorised visit.
A chief allegedly linked to the breach has been suspended indefinitely, while a palace staff member identified as Mr Omuemu has been arrested by the Nigeria Police Force and charged in court for his role in aiding the incident.
“A staff member of the Benin Traditional Council, identified as Mr Omuemu, has been detained by the Nigeria Police Force. He has been charged in court for causing a breach of the peace and abetting the unauthorised entry,” the council stated.
In a more significant development, the council disclosed that a queen who appeared in connection with the incident is currently undergoing disciplinary proceedings. According to the statement, the outcome of the process could lead to her removal from the palace in line with Benin customs and traditions.
“Furthermore, it is with deep regret that the council confirms that a Queen of the palace who was unfortunately featured in the incident is now facing serious disciplinary proceedings. In accordance with Benin traditions and customs, these proceedings may result in her removal from the palace,” the statement noted.
The council also revealed that Peller had been summoned to appear before a panel of chiefs set up to investigate the incident. However, he has yet to honour the invitation.
“Following the incident… Mr Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja (Peller) was requested to appear before a committee of chiefs tasked with investigating the matter… Regrettably, Mr Adelaja has failed to honour this invitation,” the statement said.
As a result, the council has now issued a public demand for the influencer to present himself immediately and provide a detailed explanation for his actions. In addition, he has been instructed to issue a formal apology to the palace.
“The council is therefore using this public medium to demand that Mr Adelaja presents himself immediately… and must tender an unreserved written apology… Failure to comply… will leave the council with no option but to pursue legal action,” it warned.
Reaffirming its authority, the Benin Traditional Council stressed its commitment to preserving the dignity, traditions, and cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom. It also cautioned against any future attempts to violate palace protocols, noting that such actions would be met with strict consequences.
The incident has since generated widespread reactions, with many observers highlighting the importance of respecting traditional institutions and cultural boundaries, especially in an era where social media content creation continues to blur lines between public and sacred spaces.
#Peller
#EdoState
#NollywoodTimes
No comments:
Post a Comment