Popular TikTok creator and streamer, Hamzat Habeeb Adelaja, widely known as Peller, has addressed two major controversies trailing him, insisting he is not personally at fault and maintaining his innocence.
One of the incidents involves his unauthorised visit to the palace of Ewuare II in Benin City on March 6, 2026, during his nationwide tour.
The Benin Traditional Council had earlier condemned the visit as a violation of palace protocol and a desecration of sacred grounds, stating that Peller and his entourage gained access without official approval.
The incident reportedly led to disciplinary actions, including the indefinite suspension of a palace chief, the detention and prosecution of a staff member by the Nigeria Police Force, and ongoing proceedings involving a palace queen featured in related content.
The council has since summoned Peller to appear before a committee of chiefs to explain his actions and submit a written apology, warning of possible legal consequences if he fails to comply.
Reacting during a livestream, Peller said he acted on his manager’s instruction and was unaware of any breach of protocol.
“My manager told me to go to the palace. I didn’t know anything about protocol issues. I greeted everyone respectfully—my hands are clean,” he said, adding that any responsibility should be directed at his manager.
The second controversy stems from a N395 million lawsuit filed against him by Lagos resident, Osarobo Odigie, over alleged defamation, cyber harassment, invasion of privacy, and emotional distress.
According to the suit filed through FA Garrick & Co., the claims relate to a January 6, 2026 incident at Folixxx Lounge, where Peller allegedly recorded and shared a confrontation without consent, leading to reputational damage and online harassment.
The lawsuit seeks N200 million for defamation, N100 million for emotional trauma, N75 million for cyberbullying and distress, and N20 million for legal fees.
Responding to the legal action, Peller said he lacks the financial capacity to meet the demand and reiterated his earlier apology.
“I don’t have that kind of money. I’ve apologised before and I’m begging again for forgiveness,” he said, describing himself as “just a small child” in need of guidance.
He further claimed that the controversies appear orchestrated to ruin him financially, expressing concern about the impact on his career.