Peller palace lawsuit controversy deepens as the TikTok creator denies wrongdoing over Benin Palace visit and a N395m legal claim
Popular TikTok creator and livestreamer Hamzat Habeeb Adelaja, widely known as Peller, has denied wrongdoing over a growing dual controversy involving an alleged unauthorised visit to the palace of Oba Ewuare II and a N395 million lawsuit filed against him.
Also read: Jarvis apologises to Oba of Benin over Peller’s palace controversy
Peller palace lawsuit controversy intensified after the content creator addressed both matters during a recent livestream, insisting he was not directly responsible for the incidents and acted without full knowledge of any violations.
The first issue relates to a visit to the palace of Oba Ewuare II on 6 March 2026.
The Benin Traditional Council described the visit as a breach of protocol and a desecration of sacred grounds, alleging that Peller and his team gained entry without proper authorisation.
The incident has had far-reaching consequences.
According to the council, disciplinary measures have included the suspension of a chief, the arrest and prosecution of a palace staff member, and potential sanctions against a queen linked to related content.
The council has summoned Peller to appear before its committee and submit a written apology, warning that further legal steps may follow if he fails to comply.
Responding to the allegations, Peller said he acted on instructions from his manager and was unaware that his presence violated palace rules.
“My manager asked me to go to the Oba of Benin’s palace. I didn’t know about any protocols. I greeted everyone respectfully. My hands are clean,” he said.
The second strand of the controversy centres on a N395 million lawsuit filed by Lagos resident Osarobo Odigie over an alleged incident at a lounge in Lekki.
In a pre-action notice, Odigie accused the influencer of defamation, cyber harassment, invasion of privacy, and emotional distress after he allegedly recorded and shared a video of a confrontation without her consent.
She is seeking N200 million in damages for defamation, N100 million for emotional trauma, N75 million for cyberbullying, and N20 million to cover legal costs.
In a candid appeal during the livestream, Peller admitted he does not have the financial capacity to meet the demands and pleaded for leniency, adding that he had previously apologised.
“I don’t have that kind of money. It feels like people want me to go broke. I’m begging; I’m just a young person who needs guidance,” he said.
Also read: Peller criticism triggers Benin Palace sanctions
The unfolding situation has sparked intense public debate, with legal observers noting that the outcome could set a significant precedent for digital content creators navigating cultural sensitivities and personal privacy in Nigeria.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
