Benin Queen May Be Removed After Influencer's Palace Visit

The Benin Traditional Council has indicated that Queen Mai faces potential removal due to a serious breach of protocol involving social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, popularly known as Peller. On March 6, 2026, Peller gained unauthorized access to the Benin Palace, which the council described as a desecration of the sacred precinct.

The council, through its secretary Frank Irabor, stated that Peller's visit caused significant embarrassment and disrupted peace within the palace grounds, which are not open to the public for frivolous content creation. Following a preliminary investigation, disciplinary measures are being considered against palace staff who facilitated the incident, including the indefinite suspension of a staff member, Mr. Omuemu, who has been detained by the Nigeria Police Force for causing a breach of peace.

The council has invited Peller to appear before a committee to explain his actions and has demanded an unreserved written apology, warning of potential legal action if he fails to comply.