The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has officially confirmed its plans to prosecute popular Nigerian TikTok content creator, Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, following a road accident linked to a video that surfaced online showing him allegedly live-streaming while driving his Mercedes-Benz vehicle along a busy Lagos roadway. The incident has sparked widespread discussions online about the responsibilities of social media influencers when it comes to road safety and public accountability.
FRSC Condemns Influencer’s Risky Road Behaviour
The Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, expressed deep concern over the rising trend among celebrities and social media influencers who engage in dangerous acts on public roads simply to generate content for their followers. He described such acts as "disturbing" and warned that they set a poor example for young Nigerians who may view influencers as role models.
Mohammed stressed that “Live streaming, content creation, or engaging in any activity that distracts a driver while on the road is a direct violation of traffic regulations and endangers all road users, including pedestrians, other motorists, and passengers.” He emphasized that public status or online fame does not place anyone above the law, and that such recklessness could lead to avoidable injuries or fatalities.
Agency Orders Prosecution Over Distracted Driving Incident
In response to the incident, the FRSC has directed its Lagos State command to initiate formal legal proceedings against Peller for offences associated with reckless driving, distracted driving, and endangering lives. The corps marshal reiterated that the prosecution serves as a reminder that compliance with traffic laws is non-negotiable, irrespective of one's celebrity status.
He further highlighted that the accident undermines ongoing national road safety campaigns and threatens public confidence in road safety enforcement. “When influential figures engage in such risky behaviour, it not only endangers themselves but also sends the wrong message to young Nigerians who admire them,” he noted.
The Corps Marshal also called on entertainment unions, influencer associations, and social media advocacy groups to educate their members about responsible conduct on the roads. He urged celebrities to recognize the influence they wield and the potential consequences of reckless behaviour in the public sphere.
Mohammed reinforced that roads are shared public spaces, governed by strict safety laws, and are not intended to serve as platforms for content creation or publicity stunts. He concluded by pledging strict enforcement and accountability measures against anyone, regardless of status, found to be endangering lives through negligent driving.
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