The Benin Traditional Council has initiated disciplinary proceedings against a queen in the palace following an unauthorised visit by social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, popularly known as Peller.
In a statement signed by its Secretary, Frank Irabor, the council described the incident, which occurred on March 6, 2026, as a serious breach of protocol and a desecration of the palace, the sacred seat of Oba Ewuare II.
According to the council, Peller and his entourage gained access to the palace without proper authorisation, causing embarrassment and disrupting the peace within the premises. The council stressed that the palace is not a public space for casual visits or content creation but a revered institution governed by longstanding traditions.
As part of ongoing investigations, a chief linked to the incident has been suspended indefinitely, while a palace staff member has been detained and charged by the Nigeria Police Force for allegedly aiding the breach.
The council also confirmed that a queen featured in the incident is currently facing serious disciplinary action, which may lead to her removal from the palace in line with traditional customs.
Meanwhile, Peller has been summoned to appear before a committee of chiefs to explain his actions but has yet to honour the invitation. The council has now issued a public directive demanding his immediate appearance and an unreserved written apology.
It warned that failure to comply could result in legal action, adding that law enforcement agencies have been placed on alert.
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
