| Image: Facebook |
The dispute surrounding Nigerian TikTok star Habeeb Adelaja, popularly known as Peller, and his recent visit to the Benin Royal Palace has escalated, with Queen Ewuare publicly contesting claims that the trip was unauthorised.
The controversy erupted after the Benin Traditional Council suspended Queen Ewuare, several palace chiefs, and a staff member, describing Peller’s March 6 visit as a “desecration of the sacred palace precincts” and a breach of protocol. The council summoned Peller to appear before a committee of chiefs to explain his actions and submit a written apology. It also warned that the queen involved could face disciplinary proceedings, potentially leading to her removal.
In response, Queen Ewuare took to her TikTok account (@queen_ewuare-_backup) on Thursday, rejecting the council’s claims and insisting that the visit had been formally communicated and authorised.
“Hello everyone, the issues at hand aren’t just because Peller came to the palace or because I gifted him; a lot has been happening behind closed doors. The Benin Traditional Council lied that Peller’s visit was unauthorised and that I brought him to the palace. I hope I will be able to convince you all that Peller’s visit was authorised,” she said.
Supporting her statement, the queen shared a letter titled “Courtesy Visit,” signed by Uyiekpen Ogiefa and addressed to Oba Ewuare II. The document, dated February 23, 2026, bears a council acknowledgement stamp and confirms notification of Peller’s planned visit.
“With utmost respect and humility, we write to formally inform the palace of the planned visit of a very prominent online streamer, Peller, to Benin… on March 3, 2026,” the letter reads. Queen Ewuare stressed that this proves the visit was legitimate, calling the council’s claims “lies.”
However, critics argue that a letter acknowledgement does not automatically amount to formal approval. Social media users expressed divided opinions: some supported the queen, while others questioned the legitimacy of the claimed authorisation.
“You will overcome, my great Queen. You are a beacon of light and a worthy representation of Edo women,” TikTok user Riemen wrote. Meanwhile, Facebook user Osasuyi James commented: “A letter being acknowledged does not mean approval has been granted. There must be a formal response confirming the visit.”
Peller’s management also issued a statement, affirming that all proper procedures were followed. They explained that the courtesy visit request was submitted on February 23, initially scheduled for March 3 but later moved to March 6. Although the Oba was unavailable, palace officials welcomed Peller, guided him through the palace, and provided explanations about its history and traditions.
“They were welcomed, guided through the palace, and educated on its history and traditions. Any actions perceived as inappropriate were unintentional, influenced by excitement and the warmth of the reception,” the statement said. It added: “Peller is deeply passionate about promoting Nigerian culture and would never intentionally disrespect the heritage he seeks to showcase,” apologising for any misunderstandings.
Despite these clarifications, the Benin Traditional Council maintains that the palace should not be treated as a site for casual visits or content creation. “The palace is not a public thoroughfare or a location for frivolous content creation. It is the ancient and spiritual seat of the Oba of Benin, governed by centuries of tradition, custom, and sacred protocols,” the council stated.
In a related development, the council revealed that a palace staff member, Mr Omuemu, has been detained by the Nigeria Police Force and charged in court for allegedly facilitating unauthorised access and breaching palace peace. Authorities remain vigilant for further actions.
This ongoing saga underscores the delicate balance between modern social media influence and adherence to centuries-old palace protocol, highlighting tensions within one of Nigeria’s most historic monarchies.
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