Nigerian TikToker Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja has officially responded to the ongoing controversy surrounding his visit to the Benin Kingdom, as his management releases a detailed statement clarifying events and addressing public concerns.
In the statement, Peller’s management—City Plug—confirmed that the visit to Benin City was not impromptu, but formally arranged in advance.
According to the statement, Peller’s team, with the facilitation of Uyiekpen Ogiefa (son of a Benin chief), submitted an official request letter to the palace on February 23, seeking permission for a courtesy visit initially scheduled for March 3, before being moved to March 6.
The management noted that although the Oba was unavailable on the day, the team was granted access to the palace and received by chiefs and palace representatives, who guided them through the cultural and historical significance of the kingdom.
Peller’s team acknowledged the deep cultural importance of the Benin Kingdom and expressed “utmost respect” for its traditions, heritage, and people.
They explained that the visit was conducted under guidance and that all arrangements made by palace officials were respected throughout the engagement.
Addressing the backlash that followed, the statement admitted that certain moments during the visit may have been perceived as inappropriate.
However, management stressed that there was never any intention to disrespect the culture or traditions of the Benin Kingdom. Any perceived missteps, they said, were unintentional and possibly influenced by excitement and the warm reception received.
“We sincerely wish to clarify that this was never the intention,” the statement noted, adding that any errors were “purely human.”
The statement further highlighted Peller’s passion for promoting Nigerian culture globally, insisting that it would be contrary to his mission to disrespect the very heritage he seeks to showcase.
“At no point was it the mission or intention to offend,” the management stated, while offering a sincere apology for any misunderstandings that may have arisen from the visit.
