Benin, Nigeria – The palace of the Oba of Benin has sanctioned a queen, chiefs, and palace staff over the unauthorised entry of social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, popularly known as Peller, into the royal palace in Benin City.
Okay News reports that the Benin Traditional Council disclosed the development in a statement issued by its secretary, Frank Irabor.
According to the council, the influencer gained unauthorised access to the palace premises on March 6, 2026, describing the incident as a serious breach of protocol and a desecration of the sacred royal precincts.
The council stated that the palace is not a public location for entertainment or content creation but the historic and spiritual seat of the Oba, governed by longstanding customs and traditions.
Following a preliminary investigation, the council announced disciplinary actions against individuals linked to the incident. A chief implicated in facilitating the entry has been suspended indefinitely from the palace.
In addition, a council 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.
The council also confirmed that a queen who appeared in the influencer’s video is undergoing disciplinary proceedings, which may lead to her removal from the palace under Benin customs.
Authorities further revealed that the influencer had been invited to appear before a committee of chiefs investigating the incident but has yet to honour the invitation.
The council demanded that he immediately present himself to the appropriate palace authorities and issue a written apology for the unauthorised visit and the embarrassment caused to the royal institution.
It warned that failure to comply could result in legal action, adding that relevant law enforcement agencies have been notified and are prepared to take further steps if necessary.
