Benin Council Insists Peller Had No Palace Clearance

The Benin Traditional Council on Tuesday reaffirmed that popular streamer, Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, widely known as Peller, did not receive approval to visit the palace of the Oba of Benin.

Reacting to claims by Peller and his management, the council’s secretary, Frank Irabor, clarified in a statement that submitting a letter of request and even receiving an official acknowledgement do not amount to approval.

He emphasised that it is standard institutional practice that acknowledgement of correspondence does not equate to consent.

“It is a well-known principle in any formal establishment that the submission of a letter of request, and the mere stamping or acknowledgement of such a letter, does not constitute approval,” Irabor added.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Benin Traditional Council reiterates that the receipt and stamping of any correspondence by its secretariat only serve as acknowledgement of receipt and do not, in any way, imply approval by His Royal Majesty or the council. In the absence of explicit authorisation, no visit or activity is deemed sanctioned.”

Irabor said, “The attention of the Benin Traditional Council has been drawn to recent public reactions following its press release concerning the abominable and unauthorised visit to the Palace of the Oba of Benin by Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, popularly known as ‘Peller,’ and his manager.

“Ordinarily, the Benin tradition would not warrant further engagement on such matters.

“However, given the level of misinformation and ignorance displayed by Peller and his manager, it has become necessary to set the record straight.”

The council also urged Peller and his manager to clarify publicly whether any formal written approval was granted and whether their request disclosed an intention to visit any of the Iloi (Queens).

Irabor further disclosed that the matter is currently undergoing disciplinary review, noting that Peller has been invited to the palace.

“As previously communicated, matters arising from the unauthorised visit are currently undergoing disciplinary proceedings. Peller has been invited to the Palace of the Oba of Benin, and the council will not be drawn into public discourse on issues already being addressed through the appropriate internal channels,” he said.

He added that the council remains committed to preserving the customs, traditions, and sanctity of the Benin Royal Palace.

LEADERSHIP recalls that the council, on March 17, warned that a queen who allegedly facilitated the streamer’s access to the palace could face possible removal.