Popular TikTok influencer and social media content creator, Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, is safe and unharmed following alarming reports of an alleged abduction during a livestream on Wednesday night, the Lagos State Police Command has confirmed.
The 20-year-old digital sensation, who rose to prominence in 2021 with his engaging short-form videos and live broadcasts on TikTok, reportedly encountered a tense situation while heading home during a livestream session.
According to preliminary accounts, Peller appeared to be approached by armed men, whom he initially mistook for security operatives, sparking panic among his online audience.
However, Lagos Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin clarified the situation in a statement to Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Thursday, noting that all indications point to Peller being physically safe and in possession of all his personal belongings.
“Preliminary checks have shown that Habeeb, popularly known as Peller, is at home safe and sound.
His vehicle is intact, all his phones and properties are accounted for,” Hundeyin confirmed.
He further explained that the police are investigating the incident to determine whether it was a genuine kidnapping attempt, a staged event, or simply a false alarm.
The incident has sparked widespread attention across Nigerian social media platforms, with numerous users sharing and commenting on the livestream footage in which Peller appeared visibly alarmed.
The police statement emphasized that, at present, no violence occurred, and all of Peller’s property remains undisturbed.
Peller, who has since expanded his brand beyond TikTok to livestreaming shows and events on platforms like Twitch, has amassed a large following due to his engaging and relatable content.
His sudden brush with alleged abduction highlights the growing concern over online influencers’ safety, particularly when interacting with the public during live broadcasts.
Experts on digital safety and influencer management have noted that the incident underscores the need for heightened security protocols for social media personalities, particularly those whose activities involve live public exposure.
“Content creators, especially young influencers like Peller, often face unique risks due to their public visibility.
Ensuring their physical safety while they engage with audiences online is now a crucial concern,” said digital safety analyst Chike Obi.
The Lagos State Police have assured the public that their investigation is ongoing and that any credible threat will be thoroughly addressed.
They urged citizens to refrain from spreading unverified reports that could amplify panic or misinformation.
Social media reactions have ranged from relief at Peller’s safety to calls for stricter safety measures for online personalities.
Many of his fans expressed shock over the livestream, with thousands taking to Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to voice their support and concern.
“This incident serves as a wake-up call for both influencers and the authorities,” commented social media strategist Funke Adeyemi.
“While the digital space provides unprecedented opportunities for engagement and content creation, it also exposes young creators to unforeseen risks.
Collaboration between influencers and security agencies is now more important than ever.”
As Peller continues to recover from the unsettling event, the Lagos State Police reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and public figures alike.
Authorities have promised to provide updates on the investigation as it unfolds, assuring that anyone involved in unlawful activity will be held accountable.
The case also highlights broader issues related to influencer security in Nigeria and across Africa, where digital content creation is booming.
With millions of followers, young creators like Peller wield significant online influence, making their safety a matter of both public interest and law enforcement priority.
For now, fans and the general public can take solace in the fact that Habeeb “Peller” Hamzat is safe at home, while authorities continue to investigate the nature of the alleged kidnapping and take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.