Police Arrest TikTok Influencer Peller Over Alleged Suicide Attempt and Reckless Driving in Lagos
The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed the arrest and detention of Habeeb Hamzat, a 20-year-old social media influencer popularly known as Peller, after a viral video showed him driving recklessly and crashing his vehicle while live-streaming on social media. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, December 14, 2025, sparked widespread outrage online and raised serious concerns about public safety, mental health, and the growing trend of dangerous content creation on digital platforms.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the arrest followed the circulation of footage showing the influencer operating a vehicle in a highly dangerous manner on public roads. According to the police, the act resulted in a serious road crash and posed a significant risk to Peller’s life as well as to other road users.
The police described the behaviour as not only reckless but also indicative of a deliberate attempt to commit suicide. The statement noted that broadcasting such actions live on social media amplified the danger by encouraging copycat behaviour and normalising life-threatening conduct in the pursuit of online attention.
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Following his arrest, Peller was taken into custody for further questioning, and the case was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a comprehensive investigation. The police said the outcome of the investigation would be made public and that the suspect would be charged before a court of competent jurisdiction in line with existing laws.
“The Lagos State Police Command has arrested and detained, for further investigation, Habeeb Hamzat, also known as ‘Peller,’ after a viral video surfaced online showing him driving recklessly and crashing his vehicle during a live-stream, thereby endangering his life and that of other road users,” the statement said. “Such actions constitute a serious threat to public safety and will not be treated lightly.”
The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, CP Olohundare Jimoh, also issued a stern warning to social media influencers, content creators, and members of the public. He cautioned against using digital platforms to engage in or promote dangerous, unlawful, or criminal acts, stressing that fame and online popularity do not place anyone above the law.
According to the police, the command remains committed to maintaining peace and safety across the state and will apply the full weight of the law to anyone found endangering lives or disrupting public order. Road users were also urged to strictly comply with traffic regulations to prevent avoidable accidents and loss of life.
The incident has continued to generate intense debate on social media and public forums, with reactions ranging from calls for strict punishment to appeals for mental health support for the young influencer. Some commentators argued that the arrest should serve as a deterrent to other content creators who may be tempted to engage in risky behaviour for views, while others stressed the need for psychological evaluation and counselling given the emotional distress displayed in the video.
Reports circulating online suggested that the incident may have been linked to personal issues, including an alleged breakup, though the police have not confirmed this as part of their investigation. Authorities have maintained that their focus remains on the dangerous nature of the act and its implications for public safety.
The case has once again highlighted the challenges posed by social media influence, particularly among young Nigerians who command large audiences online. As investigations continue, the Lagos State Police Command has reiterated its position that reckless driving, attempted self-harm, and any conduct capable of causing harm to others will be met with decisive legal action, regardless of the individual’s social status or online following.