A Lagos-based woman has filed a lawsuit against popular TikTok streamer Habeeb Hamzat, better known as Peller, seeking N395 million in damages over an incident where he allegedly filmed and shared a confrontation with her without consent.
The clash occurred in the early hours of January 6, 2026, at Folixxx Lounge along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos. Osarobo Odigie was at the lounge purchasing food and standing at the counter when Peller, who was behind her, reportedly shouted loudly, startling her. She stepped away from the noise, which prompted Peller to confront her aggressively.
According to the claim, he demanded to know why she moved, told her to "shut up," and hurled verbal abuses including Yoruba curses such as "Oloriburuku," "Omo Ale," and "Ashawo."Peller then recorded the encounter on his phone without Odigie's permission and posted the video on multiple platforms, including Snapchat, WhatsApp, TikTok, and Instagram.
The clip quickly went viral due to Peller's large online following, drawing thousands of comments that repeated and amplified the alleged defamatory statements. This led to widespread public ridicule, cyberbullying, harassment, emotional distress, reputational damage, and even threats to Odigie's safety.
Through her lawyers at FA Garrick & Co., led by Bola Osineye, Odigie issued a pre-action letter dated March 10, 2026, accusing Peller of defamation, invasion of privacy, and cyber harassment.
The demands include:N200 million for the defamatory publication.
N100 million for emotional trauma and reputational harm.
N75 million for distress caused by cyberbullying and threats.
N20 million to cover legal fees and related costs.
The letter also requires Peller to immediately cease any further publication of the video, remove it from all platforms (including third-party sites) within seven days, and issue a public apology on his social media accounts as well as in two national newspapers, The PUNCH and The Guardian, acknowledging the statements as "false, malicious, and injurious."
Peller had previously issued a public apology on January 9, 2026, describing his reaction as out of character and expressing regret. However, the legal action has now proceeded to the pre-action stage, with warnings that court proceedings will follow if the demands are not met.
