Popular TikTok creator Peller, born Hamzat Habeeb Adelaja, has addressed the controversies surrounding his alleged unauthorised visit to the palace of the Oba of Benin Ewuare II and a N395 million lawsuit filed against him.

Speaking during a recent livestream, the content creator insisted he was not directly responsible for the incidents, maintaining that he acted without malicious intent.

The palace controversy stems from a March 6, 2026 visit to the Benin Royal Palace, which the Benin Traditional Council described as a violation of protocol and sacred customs. According to the council, Peller and his team allegedly gained access without proper authorisation, leading to disciplinary actions within the palace, including the suspension of a chief and sanctions against some members of the royal household.

Peller, however, claimed he was unaware of any wrongdoing, stating that he acted on his manager’s instructions.

“My manager asked me to go to the Oba of Benin’s palace. I didn’t know about any protocols… My hands are clean,” he said.

The content creator is expected to appear before the council and submit a formal written apology as directed.

In a separate development, Peller is also facing a N395 million lawsuit filed by Lagos resident Osarobo Odigie. The suit includes allegations of defamation, cyber harassment, invasion of privacy, and emotional distress linked to a video he allegedly recorded and shared without consent.

Odigie is seeking damages totaling N395 million, covering defamation, emotional trauma, cyberbullying, and legal costs.

Reacting to the lawsuit, Peller admitted he lacks the financial capacity to meet the demands and appealed for understanding.

“I don’t have that kind of money… I’m begging; I’m just a young person who needs guidance,” he said, adding that he had previously apologised over the incident.

Opinion: Influence Without Awareness Comes at a Cost

Peller’s situation highlights a growing issue in the digital age—young influencers gaining massive visibility without fully understanding the responsibilities that come with it.

His claim of ignorance regarding palace protocols may be genuine, but it also reflects a lack of due diligence. Cultural institutions like the Benin monarchy are deeply rooted in tradition, and access to such spaces is never casual. In this context, ignorance is not always a sufficient defence.

The lawsuit, on the other hand, underscores the legal risks of content creation in today’s world. Recording and sharing content without consent can have serious consequences, especially when it affects someone’s reputation or privacy.

While Peller’s plea for leniency may evoke sympathy, it also serves as a lesson—fame does not exempt anyone from accountability. As the influencer space continues to grow, there is a clear need for better guidance, awareness, and professionalism.

In the end, this is not just about one individual—it’s a reflection of an industry still learning where to draw the line between content and responsibility.