The Federal Road Safety Corps has initiated steps to prosecute popular TikTok personality Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, over a road crash allegedly linked to distracted driving.
The Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, expressed concern over what he described as the rising trend of unsafe road use by celebrities, content creators and social media influencers.
His remarks followed the circulation of a video showing the TikTok streamer engaging in a live broadcast while driving, an action reported to have resulted in a traffic accident.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by the corps spokesperson, Olusegun Ogungbemide, Mohammed described the act as illegal and dangerous, warning that it could have claimed lives.
He said the incident “serves as a grim reminder that fame does not confer immunity from the law, nor does it excuse dangerous behaviour on public roads.”
Mohammed stated that “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.”
He added that such conduct undermines national efforts aimed at reducing road crashes and fatalities across the country.
Following the incident, the corps marshal directed the Lagos State Sector Commander to commence legal proceedings against the individual involved.
He explained that the action would be for “reckless driving, use of phone while driving, and distracted driving, in accordance with extant traffic laws.”
Mohammed also called on entertainment industry bodies and influencer groups to help regulate the conduct of their members and promote responsible road use.
He noted that public figures wield strong influence, especially among young Nigerians, and warned that they “must be seen as ambassadors of safety, not symbols of recklessness.”
The corps marshal cautioned that the FRSC “will not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law against any individual, celebrity or otherwise, found engaging in distracted or reckless driving.”
He stressed that “no social media content, online trend or momentary clout is worth a human life,” reminding motorists that “public roads are not studios, stages or streaming platforms.”
Mohammed urged Nigerians to report unsafe driving practices, as the FRSC reiterated its commitment to road safety, emphasising that discipline and respect for traffic laws remain essential for all road users.
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