Benin Council Declares Peller Persona Non Grata Over Alleged Palace Intrusion

The Benin Traditional Council has taken decisive action against popular social media influencer Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, widely known as “Peller,” declaring him persona non grata over an alleged unauthorised entry into the historic Benin Palace.

The development follows reports that the influencer gained access to the palace on March 6, 2026, without official clearance, an act the council considers a grave violation of long-standing traditional protocols governing the revered institution.

The Benin Palace, which serves as the official seat of the Oba of Benin, holds deep cultural, spiritual, and historical significance within the Benin Kingdom and beyond. Access to the palace is highly regulated, with strict procedures in place to preserve its sanctity and authority.

Reacting to the incident, the council condemned the alleged breach, describing it as disrespectful and unacceptable. It stressed that individuals, regardless of social status or public influence, must adhere strictly to established customs and protocols when engaging with traditional institutions.

The declaration of persona non grata effectively prohibits Peller from entering the palace premises or participating in any activities linked to the Benin traditional institution. The move underscores the council’s commitment to upholding discipline, respect, and the dignity of the monarchy.

The incident has also raised concerns about possible lapses in palace security, as observers question how an unauthorised individual was able to gain entry into such a highly secured and symbolic location. Calls have emerged for a review of security measures to prevent a recurrence.

Beyond the immediate controversy, the situation has ignited wider debate on social media regarding the conduct of influencers and the growing tension between digital culture and traditional values. Many commentators have emphasised the need for greater awareness and respect for Nigeria’s cultural heritage, especially among young public figures.

As of press time, Peller has yet to issue any official statement addressing the allegations or the council’s decision.

Benin Council Declares Peller Persona Non Grata Over Alleged Palace Intrusion

Just In: Federal Govt Announces Public Holidays for Eid-el-Fitr

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, 2026, as public holidays to commemorate the Eid al-Fitr celebration.

The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, in a statement made available to journalists.

According to the statement, the holidays are in recognition of Eid-el-Fitr, a major Islamic festival that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims observe fasting, prayer, and acts of charity.

Ajani congratulated Muslim faithful across the country for successfully completing the Ramadan fast, urging them to uphold the values of sacrifice, self-discipline, love, and generosity beyond the fasting period.

She further called on Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity, and stability in the country, stressing the need for collective efforts toward national development.

The Federal Government also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens during the festive period.

Just In: Federal Govt Announces Public Holidays for Eid-el-Fitr

MURIC Raises Alarm Over Maiduguri Blasts, Urges Defence Minister to Act

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has expressed deep concern over the recent wave of explosions in Maiduguri, describing the attacks as disturbing and calling on the Federal Government to strengthen security efforts.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, the group’s Executive Director, Ishaq Akintola, said three coordinated explosions that occurred on Monday left at least 23 people dead and more than 100 others injured.

According to the statement, the explosions took place almost simultaneously at the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and two major markets—Post Office Market and Monday Market—causing widespread panic and casualties.

MURIC described the scale and coordination of the attacks as “highly challenging,” noting what it called inconsistent performance by security agencies in Borno State.

“This is quite worrisome. The toll is too high and the level of coordination highly challenging,” the statement read, adding that Nigerians, particularly in the North East and North West, continue to face severe security threats.

The group also expressed concern over what it described as the disproportionate impact of the violence on Muslim communities in the region, warning that urgent action is needed to stem the tide of killings and abductions.

MURIC further urged the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, to fulfil his pledge to safeguard lives and property across the country.

“Life has become very cheap under his watch. Nigerians are not safe,” the statement said, stressing that the rising death toll and persistent insecurity require decisive and immediate intervention.

The organisation also referenced the recent foreign engagement of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, suggesting that the timing of the attacks may have been intended to draw attention to the country’s security challenges.

MURIC concluded by calling for urgent and sustained action from the government, insisting that Nigerians deserve to live without fear and insecurity.

“Our hearts bleed. Enough is enough,” the statement added.

MURIC Raises Alarm Over Maiduguri Blasts, Urges Defence Minister to Act