The Benin Traditional Council has clarified that popular streamer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, known professionally as Peller, did not receive authorisation to visit the Palace of the Oba of Benin.
The statement was issued on Tuesday in response to claims made by Peller and his management team regarding the controversial palace visit.
According to Frank Irabor, Secretary of the council, merely submitting a request letter or having it acknowledged does not constitute official approval.
“The receipt and stamping of a letter by the council’s secretariat is solely an acknowledgement of submission,” he said. “It does not, under any circumstances, imply that permission has been granted by His Royal Majesty or the council.”
Irabor stressed that the council follows strict administrative procedures that require explicit authorisation before any visit or activity within the palace is sanctioned. “The Benin tradition does not permit unauthorized visits,” he added.
The council has asked Peller and his management to clarify publicly whether any written approval for the visit was actually obtained.
Questions Raised
Questions were also raised regarding whether their correspondence disclosed any intention to visit the Iloi (Queens) within the palace.
“The matter is currently under internal disciplinary review,” Irabor stated. “While the issues stemming from this unauthorised visit are being addressed through proper channels, the council will refrain from engaging in public debates regarding ongoing internal proceedings.”
Reaffirming its commitment to preserving Benin heritage, the council said, “The Benin Traditional Council remains steadfast in upholding the customs, traditions, and sanctity of the Oba’s palace.”
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The statement comes amid growing public attention and social media discourse surrounding the incident, underscoring the council’s insistence on strict adherence to palace protocols and cultural norms.