The Federal Road Safety Corps has announced its intention to prosecute popular TikTok streamer Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, for allegations of reckless and distracted driving.
The decision follows the circulation of a viral video in which the social media influencer was seen live streaming while operating his vehicle, an act the FRSC says reportedly resulted in a road traffic crash.
In a statement issued by Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, the Corps Marshal expressed serious concern over what was described as a growing trend of reckless road use by celebrities and influencers seeking online attention. The statement stressed that live streaming or engaging in any form of content creation while driving is a clear violation of traffic laws and poses significant risks to all road users. Consequently, the Corps Marshal has directed the Lagos State Sector Commander to commence immediate prosecution of Peller for offenses including reckless driving, use of a phone while driving, and distracted driving.
The FRSC’s statement delivered a stern warning, noting that “fame does not confer immunity from the law, nor does it excuse dangerous behaviour on public roads.” It emphasized that public roads are not studios and that such actions undermine national efforts to reduce crashes and fatalities. The Corps Marshal called on entertainment guilds, influencer networks, and content creator communities to urgently advise their members to promote responsible conduct.
He further highlighted the influential role public figures hold, stating that celebrities and influencers “must be seen as ambassadors of safety, not symbols of recklessness.” The FRSC warned it would apply the full weight of the law against anyone found engaging in such behavior, regardless of their status, concluding firmly that “no social media content, online trend or momentary clout is worth a human life.”
