TikTok sensation Habeeb Hamzat, better known as Peller, has found himself at the center of controversy following a dramatic fallout with the organizers of The Headies Awards.
The social media influencer, known for his energetic livestreams and growing fanbase, was abruptly dropped from co-hosting the awards’ livestream—just days before the much-anticipated event.
The shock decision came on the heels of an uproar sparked by one of Peller’s recent live sessions, during which he referred to Afrobeats heavyweight Runtown as an “upcoming artiste.” The remark, deemed dismissive and out-of-touch by fans and music insiders alike, triggered widespread backlash. Critics questioned Peller’s industry knowledge and professionalism, igniting debates about the role and responsibility of digital influencers in the music and entertainment ecosystem.
In a deeply emotional video posted to his social media pages, a tearful Peller confessed his heartbreak: “I’m so hurt. I was excited. I even got Davido to agree to a livestream session with me. Now everything’s gone.” The session with Davido, slated for October 30, 2024, was expected to be a landmark moment for Peller’s career, potentially bridging his digital fame with mainstream musical recognition.
While the Headies organizers have yet to issue an official statement addressing Peller’s removal, their decision appears to reflect a broader stance on upholding decorum and credibility within the industry. This isn’t the first time the award body has taken a hardline position; in 2022, controversial artist Portable was disqualified over public misconduct.
Reactions online have been polarized. Supporters rallied behind Peller, calling the move excessive and urging forgiveness for what they described as a “rookie mistake.” On the other hand, critics insist that influence comes with responsibility and that the Headies were right to distance themselves from controversy.
As the dust settles, the incident underscores the evolving dynamics between new media personalities and traditional entertainment institutions—reminding all players that in the digital age, every word counts, and reputations can be reshaped in an instant.
