The Benin Traditional Council BTC, representing the Oba of Benin Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, has sanctioned a palace chief, a queen, and other individuals following breaches of palace protocol linked to social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, popularly known as Peller.
In a statement issued by BTC Secretary Frank Irabor, the Council said Adelaja’s visit to the palace was unauthorized and violated elished traditional procedures. The influencer and his entourage reportedly gained entry without the required permission, causing embarrassment and disrupting peace within the palace.
“The Benin Traditional Council views this incident with the utmost gravity. 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 statement read.
Following a preliminary investigation, the Council suspended a palace chief indefinitely and confirmed that a staff member, Mr. Omuemu, has been detained by the Nigeria Police Force and charged to court for breach of peace and aiding unlawful entry. A queen involved in the incident is also facing disciplinary proceedings, which may lead to her removal from the palace.
The BTC directed Adelaja to present himself for questioning and tender an unreserved written apology or face legal action. The Council emphasized the need to preserve the sanctity and cultural heritage of the Benin Palace.
To prevent future breaches, the BTC introduced new guidelines regulating palace access, including mandatory written applications, prior approval for visits, prohibition of loitering, and an official access pass system. Any individual found entering the palace without proper authorization will be deemed in violation of traditional law and order and made to face legal consequences.
Leave a comment