Oba of Benin Queen Faces Ejection as Peller’s State Tour Sparks Palace Crisis

Queen Faces Palace Sanction as Influencer Peller’s State Tour Sparks Outrage.

BENIN CITY — A major controversy has erupted within the ancient Benin Kingdom following a reported breach of palace protocol involving popular social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, widely known as Peller, with a queen now facing possible ejection from the royal residence.

The crisis, which has drawn national attention, stems from Peller’s recent “state tour” across parts of Nigeria—a high-profile social media-driven movement that has seen the influencer visit prominent locations, attract large crowds, and generate viral digital content.

Palace Breach Sparks Disciplinary Action

According to the Benin Traditional Council, the influencer gained unauthorised access into the sacred palace of the Oba of Benin, an act described as a serious violation of long-standing customs and traditions.

The council condemned the incident, stressing that the palace is not a venue for “frivolous content creation” but a revered spiritual and cultural institution governed by centuries-old protocols. (Punch Newspapers)

Sources within the palace disclosed that the breach has triggered sweeping disciplinary measures. A chief allegedly linked to the incident has been suspended indefinitely, while a palace staff member has been arrested and charged for facilitating the unauthorised entry. (Punch Newspapers)

Most notably, a queen connected to the incident is now facing possible expulsion from the palace, as authorities move to enforce strict accountability and preserve the sanctity of the royal institution.

Peller’s State Tour Under Scrutiny

Peller’s ongoing “state tour,” which has rapidly gained traction among Nigeria’s youth on social media platforms, is now at the centre of the controversy. The tour, characterized by spontaneous appearances, crowd-pulling stunts, and influencer-driven engagement, has blurred the lines between entertainment, public space, and culturally sensitive environments.

While the tour has boosted Peller’s visibility and digital influence, critics argue that it reflects a growing disregard for traditional authority and established norms—especially when such activities encroach on sacred institutions like the Benin Palace.

Observers note that the influencer’s style—often marked by dramatic entries and mass followership—may have contributed to the breakdown of control during the palace visit, leading to what authorities now describe as a “desecration” of the revered premises.

Tradition vs Digital Culture

The unfolding situation has sparked wider debate across Nigeria about the tension between traditional institutions and modern digital culture. Analysts argue that as influencers gain unprecedented access and societal influence, there is an urgent need to define boundaries—particularly in culturally sensitive spaces.

For the Benin Kingdom, known for its deep-rooted traditions and strict palace protocols, the incident is being treated as more than a mere social media misstep. It is seen as a challenge to authority, heritage, and the preservation of royal dignity.

What Happens Next

As investigations continue, attention is now focused on the final decision of the palace authorities regarding the queen and other individuals implicated in the breach. The outcome is expected to set a strong precedent for how similar incidents involving influencers and traditional institutions will be handled going forward.

For now, the controversy surrounding Peller’s state tour serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between cultural preservation and the rapidly evolving world of digital expression in Nigeria.