By Prosper Mene
The Benin Traditional Council (BTC), acting on behalf of His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, has imposed sanctions on a palace queen, a chief, and other individuals following a breach of protocol involving popular social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, widely known as Peller.
The incident occurred on March 6, 2026, when Peller reportedly gained unauthorized access to the sacred precincts of the Oba’s palace during what appears to have been part of his nationwide content creation tour. The BTC described the visit as a “serious breach of protocol and desecration of the sacred precincts of the Palace,” emphasizing that proper traditional procedures were not followed.
In an official statement released by BTC Secretary Frank Irabor, the council confirmed that investigations identified several palace insiders who facilitated or aided the influencer’s entry. Key disciplinary measures include:
A palace chief implicated in the matter has been placed on indefinite suspension from palace duties.
A staff member of the Benin Traditional Council, identified as Mr. Omuemu, has been detained and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force. He faces charges related to causing a breach of the peace and abetting the unauthorized entry.
A queen of the palace, who was featured in the incident and allegedly involved in welcoming or interacting with Peller, is now subject to serious disciplinary proceedings. In line with Benin traditions and customs, these proceedings could result in her removal from the palace.
The council expressed deep regret over the event, underscoring its commitment to upholding the dignity, sanctity, and cultural integrity of the Benin monarchy. It has also extended an invitation to Peller to appear before a committee of chiefs to provide his account of the visit, amid reports that he may face legal consequences for the unauthorized access and related disruptions.
The sanctions highlight the strict adherence to protocol within the Benin palace and have caused widespread discussions online about the intersection of modern social media influence and ancient royal traditions.
The BTC reiterated that such breaches undermine the revered institution and vowed to preserve its protocols moving forward. Further updates on the disciplinary proceedings and any potential legal actions are expected as investigations continue.
