Omanghana
Popular Nigerian TikTok personality and streamer Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, has spoken publicly about his experience in police custody after spending four days in a Lagos cell following his arrest in the Lekki area.
The 21-year-old content creator shared details of his ordeal on Snapchat after being released on bail, describing the detention as a difficult and unexpected experience that left him physically and emotionally affected.
Peller was arrested alongside his friend, Bello Oladipo, after a confrontation with officers from the Lagos State Police Command. The incident reportedly began when police officers stopped the pair while they were traveling in a newly purchased tinted vehicle that did not yet have a registered number plate.
Peller Describes Conditions in Custody
Speaking after his release, Peller said his time in detention was a major shock and unlike anything he had experienced before.
The streamer claimed that during his four days in the police cell, he did not eat, drink water, or take a bath. He said the condition of the detention facility left him feeling uncomfortable about appearing publicly, explaining that he looked too unkempt to immediately return to his usual online presence.
Peller also revealed that other inmates quickly recognized him despite the circumstances. According to him, fellow detainees jokingly referred to him as their “001,” a term often used in Nigeria to describe a leader or top figure.
However, he said he avoided unnecessary conversations and chose to remain quiet until his release.
Peller Promises Greater Caution After Experience
Reflecting on the incident, Peller said the experience changed his outlook and taught him to be more careful in his actions.
The social media personality advised himself to “walk gently” and avoid situations that could lead to further trouble. He added that staying out of controversy is now a priority, especially as he prepares for his upcoming wedding.
Police Charges Filed Against Peller and Friend
Following the confrontation, police authorities arraigned Peller and Bello Oladipo before a Lagos Magistrate Court on a three-count charge.
The charges include:
- Conspiracy to commit a felony.
- Obstructing and resisting police officers while they were carrying out their official duties.
- Engaging in conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace, including allegedly threatening officers and recording them during an operation.
Police officials alleged that the two men resisted attempts by officers to verify details about the vehicle at the police station.
However, Peller’s representatives presented a different account of the incident, claiming that the officers became aggressive during the encounter. They alleged that police personnel grabbed Peller’s shirt and pointed a firearm at him after he began recording the interaction on his phone.
Court Grants Bail as Case Continues
The court granted bail to both defendants at ₦500,000 each.
As part of the bail conditions, each accused person is required to provide two sureties, with one being a direct blood relative. They must also submit two years of tax clearance certificates as part of the requirements.
The case has been adjourned to a later date for further proceedings.
The incident has generated widespread discussion online, with supporters of Peller calling for accountability and transparency, while authorities maintain that police officers must be allowed to carry out lawful duties without interference.
Source: Omanghana
