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BENIN CITY — A Queen of the Oba of Benin’s Palace is now facing the possibility of removal after a serious breach of Palace protocol, which saw social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, popularly known as “Peller,” gain unauthorized access to the sacred precincts of the Palace on Friday, 6 March 2026.
The Benin Traditional Council (BTC), in a statement signed by Secretary, Frank Irabor, described the incident as a grave desecration of the Palace’s sanctity and a direct violation of centuries-old customs.
“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 said.
Investigations revealed that Mr. Adelaja and his entourage entered the Palace without permission, causing embarrassment and disrupting the peace of the royal grounds.
The Council swiftly imposed disciplinary measures on those who facilitated the intrusion.
A Palace Chief implicated in the breach has been suspended indefinitely, while staff member Mr. Omuemu has been detained by the Nigeria Police Force and charged for abetting the unauthorized entry.
Most significantly, the Queen who appeared in the incident is now subject to formal disciplinary proceedings. Under Benin tradition, the outcome could result in her expulsion from the Palace, a move that underscores the seriousness with which the Council views the violation.
Mr. Adelaja was formally invited to present his side before a committee of Chiefs but reportedly failed to honour the summons.
The Council has now demanded that he appear immediately and issue an unreserved written apology for the disruption and embarrassment caused.
The BTC warned that failure to comply will result in legal action, with law enforcement authorities already alerted and prepared to intervene.
Secretary, Frank Irabor reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to protecting the Palace’s sacred traditions.
“While unscrupulous elements may attempt to undermine our institutions, banking on the forgiving disposition of His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, they do so at their peril,” he said.
The Council assured the public that it has the necessary authority to correct such breaches and prevent future occurrences, pledging to continue safeguarding the dignity and sanctity of the Oba’s throne.
