The Lagos State Police Command has arrested and detained popular TikTok influencer Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, after a video showing him driving recklessly while live-streaming went viral on social media.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, December 14, 2025, sparked public outrage after clips from the live broadcast spread rapidly across different platforms. In the video, the young influencer was seen driving at high speed in what the police described as a dangerous and irresponsible manner, an action that reportedly resulted in a serious road crash.
Confirming the arrest, the Lagos State Police said Peller was taken into custody following concerns that his actions posed a grave risk to his own safety and that of other road users. The police said the act amounted to unlawful behaviour capable of causing a breach of public peace.
In an official statement released on Tuesday, December 16, and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, the police explained that the influencer’s conduct raised serious safety concerns, especially because it was broadcast live to a large online audience.
According to the statement, the viral footage showed Peller driving in a reckless manner that led to a dangerous motor accident. The police said such behaviour not only violated traffic laws but also encouraged unsafe conduct among viewers, many of whom are young people.
“The suspect was arrested and detained for further investigation following the viral video in which he was seen driving recklessly while live-streaming, leading to a dangerous road crash,” the police said. “His actions endangered his life and the lives of other innocent road users.”
Images of the damaged vehicle involved in the incident have also circulated online, further fuelling public debate about the growing trend of risky stunts by social media influencers in the pursuit of views and online engagement.
Peller, who is 20 years old, is one of Nigeria’s most recognisable TikTok personalities. He rose to fame through short, humorous videos and energetic live streams, often marked by his unique style of speaking and exaggerated expressions. Over time, he has built a massive following across TikTok and other social media platforms, particularly among teenagers and young adults.
His popularity has made him a frequent topic of discussion online, with fans closely following his personal life and creative output. In recent months, his name has appeared repeatedly in entertainment headlines, including reports about his relationship and collaborations within the content creation space.
Following his arrest, the Lagos State Police Command said the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a more detailed and thorough investigation. The police said investigators would review the video evidence, statements from witnesses, and other relevant materials before determining the next steps.
“The case is currently under investigation by the State Criminal Investigation Department,” the police statement said. “The suspect will be charged to a court of competent jurisdiction if found culpable, in line with the law.”
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Olohundare Jimoh, issued a strong warning to social media influencers, content creators, and members of the public. He cautioned against using social media platforms to engage in, promote, or glorify reckless and dangerous behaviour.
The commissioner stressed that Lagos would not tolerate actions that put lives at risk, regardless of a person’s social status or online popularity. He noted that while social media has become a powerful tool for creativity and business, it must be used responsibly.
“Social media must not be used as a platform to promote lawlessness or endanger lives,” the police said on his behalf. “Any conduct capable of causing harm or disturbing public peace will be dealt with decisively.”
The police also reminded motorists that reckless driving remains one of the leading causes of road accidents in Lagos State. With the city’s heavy traffic, high population, and complex road network, authorities have repeatedly warned that speeding, distracted driving, and disregard for traffic rules can easily lead to fatal consequences.
Over the years, Lagos has recorded numerous accidents linked to careless driving, use of mobile phones behind the wheel, and social media distractions. Road safety agencies have consistently urged drivers to focus fully on the road and avoid activities that could reduce their attention while driving.
The arrest of Peller has reignited conversations about the responsibility of influencers and public figures, especially those with young followers. Many Nigerians have taken to social media to express mixed reactions. While some praised the police for acting swiftly, others called for stricter enforcement of traffic laws across board, regardless of whether an offender is famous or not.
Some commentators also raised concerns about the growing pressure on content creators to produce extreme or shocking material in order to stay relevant online. They warned that without proper boundaries, such trends could continue to put lives at risk.
Others argued that the case should serve as a lesson to young Nigerians who see social media fame as a shortcut to success without considering the consequences of their actions. They urged influencers to remember that their behaviour can influence millions of viewers.
The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state. The command urged all road users to obey traffic regulations at all times and to report dangerous driving when they encounter it.
As investigations continue, the police said updates on the case will be made available to the public. For now, the arrest of one of Nigeria’s most visible TikTok stars sends a clear message that online popularity does not place anyone above the law.
The incident adds to a growing list of cases where public figures have been held accountable for actions captured and shared on social media, highlighting how digital platforms are increasingly playing a role in law enforcement and public accountability in Nigeria.
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