The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has officially directed the prosecution of popular TikTok streamer, Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, following a road traffic crash reportedly caused by distracted driving.
The decision comes after a video surfaced showing the content creator engaging in a live stream while behind the wheel. The FRSC described the incident as a “grim reminder” that social media fame does not grant immunity from traffic regulations or the laws of the land.
Unlawful Conduct and National Safety
In a statement released on Monday by the Corps spokesperson, Olusegun Ogungbemide, the Corps Marshal expressed deep concern over the growing trend of celebrities and influencers engaging in reckless behavior for “clout.”
Mohammed emphasized that live streaming, recording content, or any activity that distracts a driver is a direct violation of established road traffic regulations.
“Live streaming, content creation, recording or engaging in any activity that distracts a driver while driving is a direct violation of established road traffic regulations and poses grave danger not only to the driver but to other innocent road users,” Mohammed stated.
The FRSC boss noted that such actions significantly undermine national efforts to reduce road traffic crashes and fatalities. He stressed that “no social media content, online trend or momentary clout is worth a human life.”
Directed Prosecution and Industry Accountability
Following the incident, the Corps Marshal directed the Lagos State Sector Commander of the FRSC to immediately commence prosecution against Peller. The charges will include:
* Reckless driving
* Use of phone while driving
* Distracted driving
In addition to the legal action, Mohammed called on professional bodies within the entertainment industry—including the Actors Guilds, influencer networks, and content creator communities—to take responsibility for the conduct of their members.
He warned that celebrities, who wield significant influence over young Nigerians, must serve as “ambassadors of safety, not symbols of recklessness.”
Roads Are Not Studios
The FRSC reaffirmed that public roads are shared spaces governed by law to preserve lives, explicitly stating that they are “not studios, stages or streaming platforms.”
The Corps Marshal issued a stern warning that the FRSC will apply the full weight of the law against any individual found engaging in dangerous driving, regardless of their social standing. He further encouraged members of the public to support safety efforts by reporting dangerous driving behaviors.
The FRSC remains committed to ensuring safer highways, reiterating that road safety is a shared responsibility requiring discipline and respect for the law by all users.
