The Benin Traditional Council has announced disciplinary actions against several palace officials, including the potential removal of a queen, following an unauthorized visit by popular social media influencer and streamer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, known as Peller, to the palace of the Oba of Benin on March 6, 2026.
In an official statement issued by BTC Secretary Frank Irabor, the council described Peller’s entry into the sacred premises—without proper permission—as a grave breach of protocol and a desecration of the palace, which serves as the ancient spiritual seat of Oba Ewuare II, the Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo.
The incident reportedly caused significant embarrassment after Peller, who was on a nationwide tour, created and shared a viral video from within the palace grounds.
Following a preliminary investigation, the council identified individuals who facilitated the unauthorized access. Consequences include:
A palace chief implicated in the matter has been suspended indefinitely.
A Benin Traditional Council staff member, Mr. Omuemu, has been detained by the Nigeria Police Force, charged with causing a breach of the peace and abetting the unauthorized entry.
A queen featured in the incident now faces serious disciplinary proceedings under Benin traditions and customs, which may result in her expulsion from the palace.
The BTC extended an invitation to Peller to appear before a committee of chiefs to explain his side and address the matter. He reportedly failed to honor this invitation.
The council has now publicly demanded that Peller immediately present himself to the relevant palace authorities, tender an unreserved written apology for the unauthorized access and the distress caused, or face legal action. Law enforcement agencies have been notified and are prepared to act if he does not comply.
The statement emphasized the palace’s status as a site governed by centuries-old traditions—not a venue for casual content creation—and reaffirmed the council’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of the Benin throne.
