FRSC moves to prosecute TikToker Peller over distracted driving crash

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has ordered the prosecution of popular TikTok streamer Habeeb Hamzat, also known as Peller, following a road traffic crash linked to a video showing him live-streaming while driving.

The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, raised concerns over what he described as a growing trend of reckless road use among celebrities, social media influencers and content creators, warning that such behaviour endangers lives and undermines national road safety efforts.

In a statement issued on Monday by the FRSC spokesperson, Olusegun Ogungbemide, Mohammed described the act of live-streaming while driving as unlawful and dangerous, stressing that it could have resulted in fatalities.

“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,” the Corps Marshal said.

He explained that live streaming, recording content or engaging in any activity that distracts a driver violates traffic regulations and poses serious risks to both the driver and other road users. According to him, such actions directly contradict ongoing efforts to reduce road crashes and fatalities nationwide.

Mohammed disclosed that he had directed the Lagos State Sector Commander of the FRSC to commence prosecution of the individual involved for offences including reckless driving, use of a mobile phone while driving, and distracted driving, in line with existing traffic laws.

The Corps Marshal also urged entertainment industry bodies, influencer networks and content creator groups to take responsibility for the conduct of their members. He noted that celebrities wield strong influence, particularly among young Nigerians, and must act as role models for safe behaviour on the roads.

Warning that enforcement would be strict, Mohammed said the FRSC would apply the full weight of the law against anyone, regardless of status, found engaging in reckless or distracted driving.

“No social media content, online trend or momentary clout is worth a human life,” he said, adding that public roads are not studios or streaming platforms but shared spaces governed by laws designed to protect lives.

The FRSC reaffirmed its commitment to road safety and called on Nigerians to report dangerous driving, stressing that safer highways require discipline, restraint and respect for traffic laws by all road users.