Popular TikTok influencer, Habeeb Hamzat, widely recognized as Peller, has experienced a significant decline in his follower count across multiple social media platforms, particularly on TikTok and Instagram. This drastic drop comes in response to his controversial statements regarding the ongoing 30-day rant challenge, a trending movement on TikTok.
In a now-viral video, Peller expressed his disapproval of Nigerians actively participating in the challenge, warning that their actions could potentially lead to the government banning TikTok in Nigeria. He voiced concerns that such widespread public expressions of frustration could attract regulatory scrutiny and government intervention.
The popular influencer, known for his engaging and interactive live TikTok sessions, advised Nigerians to express their grievances elsewhere. He suggested that those eager to rant should consider other platforms like Instagram or public spaces such as markets instead of using TikTok.
In his words: “If you really want to rant, go to Instagram or the market; don’t do it on TikTok. If TikTok gets banned, that will be a major problem.”
However, Peller’s comments were met with widespread backlash. Many social media users accused him of attempting to suppress the voices of Nigerian youths who were using the challenge as a medium to vent their frustrations about the state of the country. The criticism intensified, leading to a mass exodus of followers from his TikTok and Instagram accounts. Reports indicate that hundreds of thousands of followers unfollowed him in response to his remarks.
Beyond the loss of followers, Peller also faced severe criticism from netizens who condemned his stance on the issue. Many argued that he was siding with those in power rather than supporting the youth movement, which aimed to highlight pressing issues in Nigeria.
Reactions trailing Peller’s followership drop
osas3857 reacted: “Let’s take off more followers, so he can donate more.”
EzekweFred-x7v said, “Let more followers go so that he may donate more.”
Realshowbiz112 stated: “Very insensitive statement from him about the rant challenge… I like him but I unfollowed too.”
florenceita8397 penned: “Naija people fit love you oo, but eeh… if dem hate you, you are gone. Sensitive matters like this… Peller should know better. Thankfully, me I no kuku follow Peller because, to me, he is not even funny. And that Ikorodu juju wey dem allegedly do for am so that people go love him, no fit catch me.”