A dispute has emerged within the Benin Traditional Council following conflicting accounts over the recent visit of social media personality Peller to the Benin Royal Palace.
The controversy began after the council described the March 6 visit as a violation of palace protocol, labelling it a “desecration” of sacred grounds and insisting the influencer entered without proper authorisation.
In a statement signed by its secretary, Frank Irabor, the council maintained that neither Peller nor his team obtained the required clearance, adding that the incident disrupted order within the palace. It subsequently directed the influencer to appear before a panel of chiefs to explain his actions and submit a written apology.
However, Queen Ewuare has publicly challenged the council’s position, describing the narrative as inaccurate and incomplete.
In a response shared on TikTok, the queen argued that the issue extends beyond the influencer’s visit, hinting at underlying tensions within the palace. She also insisted that proper procedures were followed ahead of the visit.
To support her claim, Queen Ewuare released a document titled “Courtesy Visit,” which she said had been formally submitted to the palace. The letter, addressed to Oba Ewuare II, indicated that the council acknowledged receipt on February 23, 2026.
According to the document, the visit was planned as part of Peller’s tour and requested a brief audience with the monarch. It was signed by Uyiekpen Ogiefa, who stated he would accompany the influencer during the visit.
Despite this, the Benin Traditional Council has stood by its position, stressing that the palace is a sacred institution governed by long-standing customs and should not be used for casual or entertainment-related activities.
“The palace is not a public thoroughfare,” the council said, underscoring the importance of preserving tradition and decorum.
Meanwhile, Peller’s management has defended the visit, stating that due process was followed. The team acknowledged that certain moments during the outing may have been misinterpreted but insisted there was no intention to disrespect the culture or traditions of the Benin Kingdom.
They attributed any perceived missteps to excitement during the visit and emphasised the influencer’s commitment to promoting Nigerian heritage.
The situation has continued to generate debate, with the contrasting accounts from the palace authorities and the queen raising questions about protocol, communication, and internal dynamics within the revered Benin monarchy.
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