In the vibrant tapestry of Nigeria’s digital landscape, few stars have shone as brightly and as swiftly as Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller. Born on May 10, 2005, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Peller’s journey from a local Lagosian to a TikTok sensation epitomizes the transformative power of social media in the 21st century.
Early Life and Education
Peller’s formative years were rooted in the bustling city of Ikorodu. He began his educational journey at Providence Primary School and later attended Frontrunner Academy for his secondary education. It was during these years that Peller’s innate comedic talent began to surface, often entertaining classmates with his quick wit and humorous antics.
Rise to TikTok Stardom
Inspired by renowned content creators like Kai Cenat and IShowSpeed, Peller ventured into the world of TikTok in 2023. His content, a blend of relatable comedy skits, shorts, and vignettes, quickly resonated with audiences. However, it was in September 2024 that Peller’s fame skyrocketed. His skit titled “Ok baby i will start playing the football” went viral, amassing over 11 million views in less than a month. This surge in popularity solidified his position as a leading figure in Nigeria’s digital content scene.
Collaborations and Accolades
Collaboration has been a cornerstone of Peller’s success. Teaming up with fellow TikToker Elizabeth Aminata Amadu, known as Jadrolita, the duo produced a series of engaging content that captivated audiences across platforms. Their partnership showcased a synergy that blended Peller’s comedic flair with Jadrolita’s unique robotic persona, leading to widespread acclaim. PM News Nigeria+1Wikipedia+1
Peller’s influence wasn’t confined to TikTok alone. In a groundbreaking live stream, he collaborated with Nigerian-Canadian rapper Dax, further expanding his reach. Additionally, Nigerian music icon Olamide recognized Peller’s talent during live sessions, gifting him N1 million—a testament to his growing prominence in the entertainment industry.
His meteoric rise culminated in winning the “Best Content Creator” award at the Trace Awards Africa on July 8, 2024, a recognition of his significant impact on the digital content landscape.
Controversies and Challenges
With fame came challenges. In March 2025, Peller found himself at the center of controversy following his comments on the viral “30-day rant challenge” on TikTok. He urged Nigerians to move their grievances from the digital realm to the streets, suggesting that online rants could jeopardize the platform’s existence in the country. This stance led to significant backlash, including death threats and a reported loss of 600,000 followers. Peller later clarified that his intentions were misunderstood, emphasizing his concern for the platform’s longevity in Nigeria.
Legacy and Impact
Despite the hurdles, Peller’s influence remains undeniable. He holds the record for Africa’s biggest live stream on TikTok, with 260,000 viewers and earnings of 4.1 million TikTok Coins. His journey underscores the evolving nature of entertainment in the digital age and highlights the opportunities and challenges that come with it.
As Peller continues to navigate the complexities of digital fame, his story serves as both an inspiration and a cautionary tale for aspiring content creators worldwide.
