Benin Traditional Council Sets Record Straight on Peller's Palace Visit
The Benin Traditional Council (BTC) has issued a firm clarification, stating that TikTok celebrity Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, widely known as Peller, and his manager entered the palace of the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, without any formal invitation or approval. This statement comes in response to claims made by Queen Ewaure, who shared a letter with an acknowledgement stamp, asserting it confirmed permission for the visit, which led to her suspension alongside a Benin chief and palace staff.
Council Explains Administrative Procedures
In a press release signed by Frank Irabor, Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council, and distributed to journalists in Benin City, the council emphasized that the stamping of a letter is merely a routine administrative action to acknowledge receipt, not an endorsement or approval. Irabor highlighted that in any institutional setting, such procedures do not equate to sanctioned activities, and without explicit authorization, no visit can be considered legitimate.
"For the avoidance of doubt, the Benin Traditional Council reiterates that the receipt and stamping of any correspondence by its secretariat only serve as acknowledgment of receipt and do not in any way imply approval by His Royal Majesty or the Benin Traditional Council," the statement read. Irabor further noted that the council felt compelled to address the issue due to widespread misinformation circulating in the public domain.
Call for Public Clarification from Peller
The council has directly challenged Peller and his manager to publicly disclose whether they received any formal written approval for their palace visit. Additionally, they questioned if the letter of request mentioned any intention to meet with the queens, underscoring the need for transparency in this matter. This move aims to clear up any ambiguities and uphold the integrity of palace protocols.
Disciplinary Measures and Internal Handling
Frank Irabor confirmed that disciplinary proceedings are already underway regarding the unauthorized visit. Peller has been invited to the palace for further discussions, but the council stressed it will not engage in public debates over internal matters. "The Council will not be drawn into public discourse on issues already being addressed through the appropriate internal channels," Irabor stated, reaffirming the council's commitment to safeguarding the customs, traditions, and sanctity of the royal palace.
Background and Apologies
Previously, Peller's management explained that the visit was arranged through Uyiekpen Ogiefa, son of Chief Courage Uyi Ogiefa, the N'Ozeben of the Benin Kingdom, attributing any inappropriate behavior to excitement and the warm reception received. In a related development, TikTok star Jarvis publicly apologized to the Oba of Benin on behalf of her boyfriend Peller, pleading for understanding and emphasizing respect for the Oba and palace customs. The incident has sparked significant public debate, highlighting the importance of adhering to traditional protocols in royal settings.
