Lagos, Nigeria – October 8, 2025 – A video circulating online has sparked widespread debate after showing popular Nigerian TikTok streamer Habeeb Hamzat, known as Peller, being confronted by a soldier for wearing a camouflage jacket. The incident, shared widely on social media, highlights ongoing tensions around civilian use of military-style clothing in Nigeria, where such attire is restricted to authorized personnel.
What Happened
In the footage, Peller, 19, is seen in public wearing a casual camouflage jacket when approached by the soldier. The interaction escalates as the soldier questions Peller’s choice of outfit, leading to a tense exchange. Peller, known for his viral gaming and prank streams with over 3 million followers, appeared surprised but compliant, removing the jacket after a brief discussion. No physical altercation occurred, and Peller was allowed to leave without further incident.
The video, first posted on X (formerly Twitter) by entertainment outlet @GistReel, has garnered thousands of views and shares, amplifying calls for clearer guidelines on fashion versus military regulations.
The Broader Context
Nigerian law, under the Armed Forces Act, prohibits unauthorized individuals from wearing military camouflage to prevent impersonation and maintain operational security. Enforcement has led to similar viral incidents in recent years, including a 2023 case where soldiers tore a man’s camouflage pants in public and a 2024 video of a woman forced to undress on the street. The Nigerian Army has reiterated the ban, stating in a 2024 statement that violations undermine discipline, though it punishes excessive force by personnel.
Peller, who rose to fame through high-stakes online bets and collaborations with creators like Joblaq, has not publicly commented on the encounter as of this report. This follows a string of challenges for the young streamer, including a reported kidnapping scare during a livestream in August 2025, from which he emerged unharmed.
Public Reactions
The clip has ignited polarized responses online, with the phrase “Celeb wear camo — photo session. Poor man wear camo — detention” trending on X and TikTok. Many users drew comparisons to celebrities like Rihanna and Justin Bieber, who have worn camouflage in fashion shoots without repercussions abroad, fueling accusations of class bias and overreach.
• Critics of Enforcement: Fashion enthusiasts and civil rights advocates called the stop “pointless harassment,” arguing that intent matters more than fabric. One X user posted: “In the West, camo is high fashion. Here, it’s a crime for civilians. Time for reform.” Others labeled it “oppression,” linking it to broader complaints about military involvement in civilian affairs.
• Supporters: Some defended the soldier, citing security needs in a country facing insurgency threats. Comments included: “Better safe than sorry—camouflage isn’t just clothes; it’s a uniform.” A few praised Peller’s calm demeanor, with fans saying, “Handled it like a pro. Respect to Peller.”
The discourse has extended to discussions on African fashion autonomy, with influencers urging designers to create alternative prints that avoid legal pitfalls.
As the video continues to spread, it underscores the clash between personal expression and national security in Nigeria’s vibrant streetwear scene. Peller’s team has yet to respond, but the incident serves as a reminder of the fine line civilians walk in adopting global trends locally.