The Benin Traditional Council (BTC) has announced that a Queen of the Benin Palace may be removed from her position following her alleged role in granting unauthorised access to popular content creator, Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, widely known as Peller.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the BTC Secretary, Frank Irabor, the council described Peller’s March 6 visit to the palace as a serious violation of long-standing customs and protocols.
Peller, who is currently on a nationwide tour, reportedly entered the palace premises without proper clearance and was received by some palace officials—an act the council condemned as a desecration of a sacred institution.
According to the statement, the palace is not a venue for casual visits or content creation but remains a revered spiritual and cultural seat of the Oba of Benin, guided by centuries-old traditions.
Following a preliminary investigation, the council confirmed that disciplinary measures have already been taken against those involved. A chief implicated in facilitating the visit has been suspended indefinitely, while a palace staff member, identified as Omuemu, has been detained by the police and charged in court for aiding the breach.
The council further revealed that the Queen featured in the incident is undergoing disciplinary proceedings, which could ultimately lead to her expulsion from the palace in line with traditional laws.
Additionally, Peller has been summoned to appear before a committee of chiefs to explain his actions but has yet to respond to the invitation.
The BTC has now publicly demanded that the influencer present himself immediately and issue a formal written apology for the incident, warning that failure to comply may result in legal action.
Reaffirming its commitment to preserving the sanctity of the Benin monarchy, the council assured the public that necessary steps are being taken to address the breach and prevent a recurrence.
