Dare Babalola
The Benin Traditional Council has taken action against social media influencer Peller Wanted, declaring him persona non grata over an alleged serious breach of protocol.
The influencer allegedly accessed the Benin Palace without authorisation, prompting the council’s decision.
Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, known as “Peller,” gained unauthorised access to the Benin Palace on March 6, 2026, sparking outrage and raising concerns about the palace’s security and sanctity.
The Council, in a formal statement issued by Secretary Frank Irabor, condemned the unauthorized access to the Palace, emphasizing that it is a revered cultural and spiritual site, not a venue for casual visits or social media content creation, but rather a sacred institution steeped in centuries-old traditions.
The Council noted that Peller’s unauthorised visit, accompanied by his entourage, disrupted the palace’s tranquility and brought embarrassment to the Benin people and their traditional institution.
Following a preliminary investigation, the Council has announced disciplinary actions against those involved.
A Chief implicated in the incident has been suspended indefinitely, and a staff member, Omuemu, has been arrested and charged in court for facilitating the unauthorised access.
Additionally, a Queen featured in the video is facing disciplinary proceedings, which, in line with tradition, may result in her removal from the Palace.
The Council also stated that Peller was invited to appear before a panel of Chiefs, but he has failed to comply with the request.
It has now issued a formal demand for him to present himself and tender an unreserved written apology, warning that failure to do so may result in legal action.
Reaffirming its role as custodian of Benin customs and traditions, the Council assured the public that measures are in place to prevent a recurrence and preserve the dignity of the throne.
The statement reads, “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 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.
“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.
“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.
“Following the incident, the council, utilising the same channels within the palace that facilitated the initial entry, extended an invitation to Mr Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja (Peller). He was requested to appear before a committee of chiefs tasked with investigating the matter to provide his own side of the story. Regrettably, Mr Adelaja has failed to honour this invitation.
“The council is therefore using this public medium to demand that Mr Adelaja presents himself immediately to the relevant authorities within the council. His unapproved visit has caused untold distress to many people, and as such, he must tender an unreserved written apology to the palace for his unauthorised access and the embarrassment caused.
“Failure to comply with this directive will leave the council with no option but to pursue legal action. The appropriate law enforcement agencies have been duly informed of this matter and are standing by to take necessary action against him.
“The Benin Traditional Council assures the public and the entire Benin nation that it remains the unwavering custodian of our age-old customs and traditions. While unscrupulous elements may occasionally attempt to undermine our sacred institutions, banking on the fatherly and forgiving disposition of His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, they do so at their peril.
“The council wishes to state unequivocally that it possesses the institutional tools to immediately correct such infractions and prevent any recurrence.
“We thank the public for their concern and support in preserving the sanctity and dignity of the Benin throne.”
