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Nigerian TikTok personality Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja has responded to the controversy surrounding his recent visit to the Benin Kingdom, presenting evidence to challenge claims that his appearance at the palace was unauthorised.
The clarification comes after the Benin Traditional Council criticised the visit, describing it as a violation of palace protocols. The council had earlier summoned the influencer to appear before a panel of chiefs and warned that disciplinary action could extend to a queen linked to the incident.
In a statement issued by his management team on Thursday, Peller maintained that the visit was officially arranged and carried out with respect for the kingdom’s customs. The team explained that proper procedures were followed prior to the trip, including submitting a formal request to the palace.
According to the statement, a letter seeking permission for a courtesy visit was sent on February 23, with the initial date scheduled for March 3 before being moved to March 6. The management also attached a copy of the request as evidence to support their position.
The statement further revealed that Peller and his entourage were informed ahead of time that the Oba would not be present during the visit. Despite this, they proceeded with the trip and were reportedly received by palace chiefs who welcomed them and offered guidance throughout their stay.
“We would like to sincerely address the concerns surrounding Peller’s recent visit to the Benin Kingdom. First and foremost, we acknowledge the deep cultural significance of the Benin Kingdom and extend our utmost respect to its traditions, heritage and people,” the statement read.
It added that the visit was facilitated through established connections within the palace structure. “Peller and his team, with the facilitation of Uyiekpen Ogiefa, son of Chief Courage Uyi Ogiefa, the N’ozeben of the Benin Kingdom, formally submitted a letter on February 23rd to the palace requesting a courtesy visit scheduled for March 3rd, and it was later moved to March 6th (letter attached herein).”
The management emphasised that the arrangements made by palace officials were fully respected during the visit. They noted that chiefs within the palace received the group and took them through aspects of the kingdom’s history and traditions.
“Ahead of the visit, the team was clearly informed that the Oba would not be available. However, they were graciously welcomed to the palace, with arrangements made for them to be received by Uyiekpen Ogiefa and the palace chiefs, as well as guided through the palace while being educated on its history, culture, and traditions,” the statement continued.
While defending the legitimacy of the visit, Peller’s team also acknowledged that certain actions during the outing may have been misunderstood or viewed as inappropriate by some observers. They insisted, however, that there was no intention to disrespect the institution.
“That said, we understand that certain moments during the visit may have been perceived as inappropriate. We sincerely wish to clarify that this was never the intention. Any mispronunciations or actions were unintentional and purely human, possibly influenced by excitement and the warmth of the reception,” the statement noted.
Reiterating Peller’s stance, the management stressed his commitment to promoting Nigerian culture on a global scale, arguing that it would be counterproductive for him to disrespect the very traditions he often showcases in his content.
“Peller is deeply passionate about promoting Nigerian culture, and it would never be his intention to disrespect the very heritage he is committed to showcasing to the world. At no point was it the mission or intention to offend or disrespect the culture in any way,” the statement added.
The team concluded by appealing for understanding, admitting that the situation may have been shaped by misinterpretations. They also issued an apology to anyone who may have felt offended by the visit.
“We, however, acknowledge that there may have been misconceptions arising from the visit and sincerely apologize for any such misunderstandings. We appreciate the feedback and the continued support,” the statement said.
The development comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the incident, with many awaiting further response from the Benin Traditional Council regarding the evidence presented by the influencer’s team.
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