The Benin Traditional Council is taking decisive action over an incident involving unauthorized access to the Oba of Benin’s Palace, summoning social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, popularly known as Peller, to appear before its authorities.
The council says the influencer’s entry into the palace, alongside members of his entourage, violates long-standing traditions and protocols governing the sacred institution.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the incident occurs on March 6 and reportedly involves conduct that the council describes as embarrassing and disruptive to the peace and dignity of the palace.
In a statement released on March 17, 2026, the council confirms that Peller enters the palace premises without official approval and engages in actions considered inappropriate within the highly revered environment.
The council expresses concern that the influencer fails to honor an earlier directive requiring him to appear before an investigative committee set up to review the incident.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the council is now using a public notice to demand his immediate appearance before relevant authorities within the traditional institution.
Officials say the influencer must also submit an unreserved written apology to the palace for what they describe as a serious breach of protocol.
The Benin Traditional Council emphasizes that the Oba’s Palace is not an ordinary public space but a sacred cultural and spiritual center.
It notes that the palace serves as the ancient seat of the Oba of Benin and is governed by centuries-old customs, traditions, and established protocols.
Authorities stress that any form of unauthorized access undermines the sanctity of the institution and disrespects the cultural heritage of the Benin people.
The council warns that failure to comply with its directive may lead to legal action against the influencer.
Beyond the actions of the influencer, the council also reveals that the incident has triggered internal disciplinary measures within the palace.
According to the statement, a palace chief has been suspended indefinitely in connection with the breach.
A staff member is reportedly detained and charged, while a queen faces disciplinary proceedings that could result in removal from the palace.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the council describes the situation as deeply distressing, noting that the incident has affected several individuals within the palace structure.
The council reiterates its role as the custodian of the traditions and cultural values of the Benin Kingdom.
It assures the public that it possesses the authority and institutional mechanisms to address any actions that threaten the integrity of the palace.
Officials also caution that individuals who attempt to exploit the perceived leniency of the traditional institution do so at their own risk.
The council underscores that respect for tradition and adherence to established protocols are non-negotiable requirements for anyone seeking access to the palace.
Cultural analysts say traditional institutions such as the Benin monarchy play a vital role in preserving history, identity, and social order.
They note that breaches of palace protocol are often treated with seriousness because of their cultural and symbolic implications.
In response to the incident, the Benin Traditional Council announces new security measures aimed at preventing future violations.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the council is tightening access control within the palace by introducing stricter guidelines for visitors and staff.
Under the new measures, all visitors must obtain prior written approval before entering the palace premises.
Visitors are also required to be escorted at all times by authorized palace or council officials to designated areas.
The council designates certain sections of the palace as restricted zones, where access is strictly prohibited to unauthorized individuals.
Officials say any person found within these restricted areas without proper clearance will be treated as a trespasser.
In addition, the council introduces an official Palace Access Pass system for authorized visitors and personnel.
Security agencies are directed to apprehend anyone found within the palace grounds without valid identification or authorization.
The council emphasizes that loitering or unauthorized movement within the palace will attract serious consequences under the law and traditional regulations.
Security experts say such measures are essential for protecting culturally significant institutions from misuse and maintaining order within sensitive environments.
They add that increased visibility of social media content creation has made it necessary for institutions to reinforce boundaries around private and sacred spaces.
The Benin Traditional Council also calls on the public, particularly content creators and influencers, to respect cultural institutions and seek proper authorization before accessing restricted areas.
Observers note that the rise of digital media has increased interactions between public figures and traditional spaces, sometimes leading to conflicts over access and conduct.
However, authorities stress that cultural preservation must remain a priority.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the council reiterates its commitment to safeguarding the dignity, heritage, and traditions of the Benin Kingdom.
It assures citizens that steps are being taken to prevent a recurrence of similar incidents in the future.
As the situation unfolds, attention remains focused on whether the influencer will comply with the directive to appear before the council and issue the required apology.
For now, the council maintains that respect for tradition and adherence to established protocols remain essential in preserving the integrity of one of Nigeria’s most revered cultural institutions.
