The Benin Traditional Council (BTC), on behalf of the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, has sanctioned a palace chief, a queen, and other individuals over breaches of palace protocol linked to the recent visit of social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, popularly known as Peller.

In a statement issued by the Secretary of the BTC, Frank Irabor, the Council said the influencer’s visit to the palace was unauthorized and violated established traditional procedures.

According to the statement, Adelaja and his entourage gained entry into the palace without the required permission, an action the Council said caused embarrassment and disrupted peace within the palace premises.

“The Benin Traditional Council views this incident with the utmost gravity. The Palace is not a public thoroughfare or a location for frivolous content creation; it is the ancient and spiritual seat of the Oba of Benin, governed by centuries of tradition, custom, and sacred protocols,” the statement read.

Following a preliminary investigation, the Council said it had taken disciplinary actions against those involved in facilitating the unauthorized access. A palace chief implicated in the incident has been suspended indefinitely, while a staff member, identified as Mr. Omuemu, has been detained by the Nigeria Police Force and charged to court for alleged breach of peace and aiding the unlawful entry.

The BTC also confirmed that a queen featured in the incident is currently facing disciplinary proceedings, which may lead to her removal from the palace.

The Council directed Adelaja to present himself for questioning, noting that he had earlier failed to honour an invitation extended to him. It also demanded that he tender an unreserved written apology to the palace over the incident or risk legal action.

Describing the development as distressing, the Council reiterated the need to preserve the sanctity and cultural heritage of the Benin Palace.

Meanwhile, the BTC announced new guidelines regulating access to the palace. These include mandatory written applications, prior approval for visits, prohibition of loitering, and the introduction of an official access pass system.

“Henceforth, any individual or group found entering or loitering within the Oba’s Palace premises without the required permits, approval, or official access pass will be considered to be in violation of traditional law and order,” the statement added.

The Council warned that violators would be apprehended and made to face the full consequences of their actions in line with the law. (Vanguard)