The Federal Road Safety Corps has announced plans to prosecute popular TikTok streamer Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, following a road traffic crash linked to alleged distracted driving. The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, said the case reflects a worrying rise in irresponsible road use among celebrities, influencers and content creators, which he warned threatens public safety and undermines national road safety campaigns.
The decision followed the circulation of a viral video showing Peller live streaming while driving shortly before the crash. Mohammed described the conduct as unlawful and dangerous, stressing that social media fame does not place anyone above traffic regulations or shield them from legal consequences.
In a statement signed by FRSC spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide, the corps marshal said the incident should serve as a stark reminder that reckless behaviour on public roads can easily lead to loss of lives. He emphasised that live streaming, content creation, recording or any other act that distracts a driver is a clear violation of traffic laws and poses serious risks to both the driver and other road users.
Mohammed explained that such behaviour undermines ongoing national efforts to reduce crashes and fatalities on Nigerian highways. He warned that the FRSC will treat similar incidents with utmost seriousness, particularly when they involve influential public figures whose actions may encourage copycat behaviour among young people.
The Corps Marshal directed the Lagos State Sector Commander to begin prosecution of the influencer. According to the directive, the case will focus on alleged offences of reckless driving, use of a phone while driving and distracted driving, in line with existing traffic regulations.
Mohammed also urged professional associations in the entertainment space, including actors’ guilds, influencer networks and content creator groups, to take greater responsibility for the conduct of their members. He called on them to actively promote safe driving messages and discourage any content that glamorises dangerous behaviour behind the wheel.
He noted that celebrities and social media influencers command strong followership, especially among young Nigerians, and should therefore act as role models for safety rather than symbols of recklessness. He added that using public roads as platforms for risky stunts or emotional live sessions sends the wrong message and can have tragic consequences.
Reiterating the FRSC’s zero-tolerance stance, Mohammed said the corps would not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law against anyone found engaging in reckless or distracted driving, regardless of status or popularity. He stressed that no video, online trend or attempt to gain clout is worth a human life, and reminded motorists that roads are shared spaces governed by laws designed to protect everyone.
The Corps Marshal encouraged members of the public to report dangerous driving and irresponsible road use whenever they see it. He said collective vigilance and strict enforcement are essential to making Nigerian roads safer for all users.