A popular Nigerian TikToker, Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, has dismissed suggestions that he will suffer financially following the ban on TikTok live streams at night in the country.
TikTok temporarily restricted access to its LIVE feature for users in Nigeria during late-night hours, issuing an in-app notice to creators as part of what it described as an ongoing safety investigation.
At exactly midnight (Nigerian time) on Sunday, the platform pushed out a system notification titled “LIVE Notices – TikTok LIVE Update in Nigeria.
”The message read,
“We’re temporarily limiting LIVE late at night in Nigeria as part of our investigation to ensure our platform remains safe and our community stays protected.”
The temporary measure also blocked Nigerian users from viewing LIVE broadcasts originating from other countries during the restricted hours.
Reacting in a video posted on his Instagram page on Monday, Peller said many critics expected him to break down or “go hungry” because the live night sessions had been suspended.
According to him, such assumptions underestimate the diversity of his income sources and the strength of his brand outside TikTok.
“People are expecting me to be crying after TikTok banned live in Nigeria, thinking I’ll go hungry.
I’m an ambassador to numerous brands, and none of my endorsements is less than ₦40 million,” he said.
He added that while the platform has contributed to his visibility, his financial stability comes from long-term partnerships and endorsements.
The content creator also reiterated that he regularly gives back to his fans, noting that he often redistributes gifts he receives during livestreams through giveaways.
Peller also highlighted TikTok’s role in youth empowerment, saying the platform has helped many young Nigerians grow their audience and income far faster than on other social media platforms.
“Many people will grow on TikTok. You can’t grow on Instagram the same way. Before you make it there, you will post plenty… TikTok is easier to grow on,” he said.
Commenting on the ban and on previous calls to restrict nighttime livestreams, Peller argued that many critics do not understand how significantly TikTok contributes to the livelihoods of emerging creators.
“Those girls who want them want to ban the TikTok night livestream, you will still be on TikTok every day,” he said, warning that such restrictions could disrupt engagement and income for thousands of users.
He urged authorities and platform managers to consider the economic impact of live streaming, noting that TikTok remains one of the most accessible platforms for young Nigerians seeking visibility, income, and digital opportunities.
