Popular Nigerian TikToker Habeeb Hamzat, known as Peller, has said that the recent ban on TikTok night-time live streams in Nigeria will not affect his income.
He made the statement in a video posted on his Instagram page on Monday, responding to critics who suggested he would struggle financially due to the suspension of late-night live sessions.
Peller said, “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 stressed that his financial stability comes from multiple brand partnerships and a digital presence that does not rely solely on TikTok earnings. Peller also noted that he regularly gives back to fans, often redistributing gifts received during live streams through giveaways.
Highlighting TikTok’s role in youth empowerment, he said the platform has helped many young Nigerians grow their audience and income faster than on other social media platforms.
He said, “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.”
Commenting on the ban and previous calls to restrict night-time livestreams, Peller argued that many critics do not understand the economic impact on 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 affect engagement and income for thousands of users.
Streetnet earlier reported that TikTok had temporarily restricted access to its LIVE feature during late-night hours in Nigeria as part of a safety investigation.
At midnight on Sunday, Nigerian users received a system notification titled “TikTok LIVE Update in Nigeria,” which stated, “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 restriction also blocked users from viewing LIVE broadcasts originating from other countries during the restricted hours.