Oba of Benin Sanctions Queen, Chiefs Over Peller’s Unauthorised Palace Visit

The Oba of Benin Palace has sanctioned a queen, several chiefs and palace staff following the unauthorised visit of social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, popularly known as Peller, to the royal palace in Benin City.

The Benin Traditional Council disclosed this in a statement issued by its Secretary, Frank Irabor, noting that the influencer gained access to the palace on March 6, 2026, without proper approval. The council described the incident as a serious breach of palace protocol and a violation of the sanctity of the royal grounds.

According to the council, the palace is not a venue for entertainment or social media content creation but serves as the historic and spiritual seat of the Oba of Benin, governed by long-standing customs and traditions.

Following a preliminary investigation, the council announced disciplinary measures against individuals linked to the incident. A chief accused of facilitating the influencer’s entry has been suspended indefinitely from palace activities.

The council also revealed that a palace staff member, identified as Mr Omuemu, has been detained by the Nigeria Police Force and is facing charges related to breach of peace and aiding the unauthorised access.

In addition, a queen who appeared in a video recorded by the influencer is currently undergoing disciplinary proceedings that could lead to her removal from the palace in line with Benin traditional customs.

The council further stated that Peller had been invited to appear before a committee of chiefs set up to investigate the incident but has yet to honour the invitation.

It therefore urged the influencer to present himself before the appropriate palace authorities and submit a written apology for the unauthorised visit and the embarrassment caused to the royal institution.

The council warned that failure to comply could attract legal action, adding that law enforcement agencies have been notified and are prepared to take further steps if necessary.