•Peller and Oba of Benin
The Benin Traditional Council has reaffirmed its stance that popular streamer, Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, widely known as Peller, was not granted approval to visit the palace of the Oba of Benin.
In a statement addressing claims made by Peller and his management, the council’s Secretary, Frank Irabor, clarified that submitting a request letter and receiving an acknowledgement did not amount to official permission.
Irabor said the council was compelled to respond due to what it described as widespread misinformation surrounding the incident, reports Daily Trust.
“The attention of the Benin Traditional Council has been drawn to reactions trailing its earlier statement on the unauthorised visit to the Palace of the Oba of Benin by Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, also known as Peller, and his manager,” he said.
He noted that while such issues would not ordinarily attract further public comment, the level of misunderstanding displayed necessitated clarification.
According to him, in line with standard institutional practice, the submission and acknowledgement of a request letter only confirm receipt and do not imply approval.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the stamping or receipt of correspondence by the secretariat merely acknowledges that such communication has been received. It does not, in any way, translate to authorisation by His Royal Majesty or the Benin Traditional Council,” Irabor explained.
He stressed that without clear and explicit approval, no visit to the palace can be regarded as sanctioned.
The council also disclosed that the matter is currently undergoing internal disciplinary processes.
It added that Peller has been invited to the palace, while reiterating that it would not engage in further public debate as the issue is being handled through appropriate channels.
Irabor emphasised that the council remains committed to preserving the customs, traditions, and sanctity of the Benin Royal Palace.
