By Crystal Ugoeze
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced plans to prosecute popular TikTok personality Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, over an incident involving reckless driving.
The decision follows the circulation of a video on social media showing the influencer live-streaming while driving, an act that reportedly resulted in a traffic crash. The FRSC described the behaviour as dangerous, unlawful, and capable of causing serious injuries or loss of life.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, warned that the growing trend of risky road behaviour among celebrities and social media influencers poses a serious threat to public safety. He stressed that fame does not exempt anyone from compliance with traffic laws.
According to the FRSC, activities such as live streaming, recording, or creating content while driving constitute distracted driving and violate existing traffic regulations. Mohammed directed the Lagos State Sector Commander to commence prosecution for offences including reckless driving, use of a mobile phone while driving, and distracted driving.
The Corps Marshal also urged entertainment bodies, influencer groups, and content creator communities to take responsibility for educating their members and promoting responsible conduct on Nigerian roads. He noted that public figures wield significant influence, especially among young people, and should serve as positive examples rather than encourage unsafe behaviour.
Reaffirming the agency’s stance, the FRSC stated that it would apply the full weight of the law to anyone found engaging in reckless or distracted driving, regardless of social status. The agency emphasized that public roads are shared spaces governed by laws designed to protect lives and called on Nigerians to support efforts aimed at improving road safety nationwide.