Nigerian TikTok sensation Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, has sparked controversy with his recent portrayal of Jesus Christ during a livestream. The act attracted criticism from Christians who considered it disrespectful to their faith. Peller's religious background is not a secret; in July 2025, he publicly announced that he had left Islam for Christianity, citing traumatic childhood experiences at a Quranic school.
Peller's declaration of converting to Christianity attracted considerable attention, with some social media users celebrating his decision while others questioned the allegations against the traditional Quranic school system. Before the latest controversy, Peller and his pregnant wife, Jarvis, had also sparked social media reactions after dressing up as a Catholic Reverend Father and Reverend Sister for Halloween on October 31, 2026.
The latest controversy followed Peller's appearance in religious-themed clothing and a wig during a livestream, where he portrayed Jesus Christ. A fellow TikTok creator, described as an Abu Dhabi-based Muslim, reportedly challenged Peller and cautioned him against using religious personalities and beliefs for online entertainment. Interestingly, during their exchange, Peller reportedly described himself as a traditionalist who practises juju, rather than a Christian.
Peller subsequently apologised to Christians and made further statements identifying himself with Christianity, including references to attending Christ Apostolic Church. These varying public descriptions make it even more important to establish what Peller actually says about his religious identity rather than conveniently labelling him a Muslim whenever his actions become controversial.
What is particularly troubling is the attempt by some Islamophobes to turn a controversy involving Peller's portrayal of Jesus Christ into an opportunity to attack Islam and Muslims. If his actions offended Christians, why not address him directly and hold him accountable? Why drag Muslims into a controversy involving someone who publicly announced that he had left Islam for Christianity?
The controversy also brings back the recurring claim that people who leave Islam in Nigeria are automatically killed by other Muslims. Peller publicly announced his departure from Islam in 2025, and his declaration received widespread media attention, yet there was no credible report of Muslims killing him or murdering him because of that decision.
The Peller controversy should be an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the importance of consistency in defending religious beliefs. Those condemning the portrayal of Jesus Christ should maintain the same position and energy when Muslims raise concerns about the mockery of Prophet Muhammad, the Qur'an, the hijab, Islamic prayers, and other sacred elements of their faith.
Key points
- Peller's portrayal of Jesus Christ sparked controversy and selective outrage.
- Some commentators labeled Peller a Muslim despite his public declaration of converting to Christianity.
- The controversy highlights the need for consistency in defending religious beliefs.
