The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced plans to prosecute popular TikTok streamer Habeeb Hamzat also known as Peller, over a road traffic crash linked to distracted driving.
The Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed raised concern over what he described as a growing pattern of reckless road use among celebrities, content creators and social media influencers, warning that such action endangers lives and undermine national road safety efforts.
The warning followed a viral video showing Peller live streaming while driving, an act the FRSC said reportedly led to a road traffic crash.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by the corps spokesperson, Olusegun Ogungbemide, Mohammed described the act as unlawful and dangerous, warning that it could have resulted in loss of lives.
“The incident serves as a grim reminder that fame does not confer immunity from the law, nor does it excuse dangerous behavior on public roads,” the corps marshal said.
He emphasized that live streaming, content creation or any activity that distracts a driver while behind the wheel is a clear violation of traffic regulations and poses serious risks to the driver and other road users.
He added that such behavior undermines ongoing efforts to reduce road traffic crashes and fatalities nationwide.
Mohammed directed the Lagos State Sector Commander of the FRSC to begin prosecution against the individual involved for reckless driving, use of a mobile phone while driving and distracted driving, in line with existing traffic laws.
He also urged professional bodies within the entertainment industry, including actors’ guilds, influencer networks and content creator associations, to take responsibility for the conduct of their members and promote responsible behavior on Nigerian roads.
The corps marshal noted that celebrities and influencers have significant influence, particularly among young Nigerians, and stressed that they should serve as ambassadors of safety rather than symbols of recklessness.
Reaffirming the FRSC’s zero-tolerance stance, Mohammed said the corps would apply the full weight of the law against anyone found guilty of reckless or distracted driving, regardless of status.
“No social media content, online trend or momentary clout is worth a human life,” he said, reminding motorists that public roads are shared spaces governed by laws designed to protect lives.
He urged Nigerians to support group initiatives to make roads safer and to report risky driving practices.
