TikTok Influencer Peller Hit with N395 Million Lawsuit Over Viral Lounge Incident
A Lagos-based woman has initiated legal proceedings against popular TikTok streamer Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, following a viral video that captured a confrontation at a lounge in Lagos. The claimant, identified as Osarobo Odigie, is seeking N395 million in damages, asserting that the influencer recorded and disseminated the incident without her consent.
Details of the Confrontation at Folixxx Lounge
According to legal documents circulating online, the altercation took place in the early hours of January 6, 2026, at Folixxx Lounge situated along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos. Miss Odigie alleges that she had visited the lounge to purchase food and was standing at the counter when the situation unfolded. She claims that Peller, who was positioned behind her, suddenly shouted loudly, causing her to step away from the counter in surprise.
This movement reportedly provoked an aggressive confrontation from Peller, who demanded an explanation for her action and told her to "shut up" during the exchange. Odigie further alleges that he used several insulting words, including Yoruba curses, and recorded the encounter on his phone without her permission.
Widespread Cyberbullying and Emotional Distress
The video was allegedly posted across multiple social media platforms, such as TikTok, Snapchat, WhatsApp, and Instagram. Due to Peller's substantial online following, the clip rapidly spread, attracting thousands of comments that repeated the alleged insults and contributed to public ridicule. Odigie contends that this led to severe cyberbullying, harassment, emotional distress, reputational damage, and even threats to her safety.
Legal Demands and Pre-Action Letter
Through her legal team at FA Garrick & Co., led by Bola Osineye, Odigie issued a pre-action letter dated March 10, 2026. The legal team accuses Peller of defamation, invasion of privacy, and cyber harassment. The financial claims include N200 million for defamatory publication, N100 million for emotional trauma and reputational damage, N75 million for distress from cyberbullying and threats, and an additional N20 million to cover legal fees and related costs.
Additional Demands and Public Apology
Beyond the monetary compensation, the legal letter outlines several other demands. Peller is required to immediately cease sharing the video and remove it from all social media platforms within seven days, including copies uploaded by third-party accounts. Additionally, the claimant insists that Peller publish a public apology across his social media pages and in two national newspapers, The Punch and The Guardian, acknowledging the statements as false and harmful.
Peller's Previous Apology and Context
Interestingly, Peller had already issued a public apology shortly after the incident on January 9, 2026, admitting that his reaction was out of character and expressing regret over the situation. This lawsuit adds to the influencer's recent controversies, as he previously made headlines for seeking financial assistance to fund a medical operation for another individual.
The case highlights growing concerns over cyber harassment and the legal ramifications of viral content in Nigeria's digital landscape, with potential implications for social media conduct and privacy rights.
