TikTok Star's Palace Visit Ignites Debate Over Benin Kingdom Customs
The recent visit of Nigerian TikTok sensation Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, to the palace of the Oba of Benin on March 6, 2026, has erupted into a significant controversy, drawing attention to the deep-rooted traditions of the Benin Kingdom. The Benin Traditional Council has strongly condemned the visit, labeling it an unauthorized breach of palace protocols, which has since escalated into a major social media drama.
Palace Chiefs Educate Peller on Sacred Traditions
Amid the unfolding controversy, a video has resurfaced showing palace chiefs explaining to Peller the strict tradition that prohibits men from seeing the queen of Benin except during designated festivals and ceremonies. In the footage, Peller appears visibly shocked and amused as the chiefs detail the customs that emphasize the queen's sacred role within the kingdom.
"The only time you can see the queen is during festivals and ceremonies, and that is only if the king deems it fit," one palace chief is heard stating in the video, underscoring the gravity of the tradition. This revelation has sparked widespread discussion about the preservation of cultural norms in the face of modern social media influences.
Queen's Gift of Portraits Adds to the Intrigue
Another video from Peller's visit shows the moment he met the queen, who requested that he follow her back on TikTok and presented him with gifts, including her portraits. This interaction has raised eyebrows, given the traditional restrictions on male encounters with the queen, leading to mixed reactions from the public and netizens alike.
Reports indicate that the queen and other chiefs featured in the video now risk expulsion from the palace due to the unauthorized nature of the visit, highlighting the serious consequences of breaching Benin customs. The Benin Traditional Council has summoned Peller to appear before them, further intensifying the situation.
Social Media Reactions Pour In
The incident has triggered a flood of reactions on social media, with many users expressing their views on the clash between tradition and contemporary digital culture. Comments range from amusement to concern over the perceived mockery of royal customs.
- "Omo peller sef no small o, a whole Queen of Benin dey ask for follow back from mam," wrote one user, highlighting the unusual nature of the queen's request.
- Another user reacted, "So make he go hang her portrait for house abi wetin?" questioning the appropriateness of the gift.
- A more critical comment stated, "Our royal thrones deserve respect and should not be denigrated in the name of content or social media tours," emphasizing the need for cultural reverence.
Apology and Aftermath
In response to the controversy, Peller's girlfriend, Jarvis, has publicly apologized to the Oba of Benin, pleading for forgiveness and understanding on behalf of her boyfriend. During a live stream, she expressed, "I will not be single to stupor… please, please, forgive him. If he even fake or not fake, please, he should not come to pass, please, I beg you," showcasing the personal stakes involved.
This incident underscores the ongoing tension between preserving ancient traditions and navigating the realities of modern social media fame, serving as a poignant reminder of the cultural sensitivities that must be respected in Nigeria's diverse society.
