A well-known Nigerian TikToker, Habeeb Hamzat, popularly called Peller, has dismissed claims that he would face financial hardship following the recent restriction on TikTok night-time live streams in the country.
NEWSCLICKNG Online earlier reported that TikTok temporarily limited access to its LIVE feature for Nigerian users during late-night periods, sending an in-app alert to creators as part of what it described as an ongoing safety review.
At exactly midnight on Sunday (Nigerian time), TikTok issued a system notification titled “LIVE⚫ Notices – TikTok LIVE Update in Nigeria.”
The notice 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 prevented Nigerians from watching LIVE sessions streamed from outside the country during the affected hours.
Responding in a video posted on Instagram on Monday, Peller said many critics anticipated that he would panic or “go hungry” due to the suspension of the late-night livestream sessions.
He argued that such assumptions ignore the breadth of his revenue streams and the value of his brand beyond TikTok.
According to him, “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.”
Peller explained that he collaborates with multiple reputable companies and has built an online presence that does not rely solely on TikTok income.
He added that although TikTok contributed to his public profile, his financial security comes from long-standing partnerships and endorsement deals.
The digital creator also noted that he frequently gives back to followers, often redistributing gifts received during livestreams through giveaways.
Peller further emphasised TikTok’s importance in supporting young content creators, saying the platform helps many Nigerian youths expand their audience and earnings far more quickly than other social media networks.
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.”
Speaking on the restrictions and earlier calls for banning late-night livestreams, he argued that many critics are unaware of how vital TikTok is to the income of rising creators.
He said, “Those girls who want them want to ban the TikTok night livestream, you will still be on TikTok every day,” cautioning that such measures could reduce engagement and affect the livelihood of thousands of users.
Peller urged both authorities and platform regulators to consider the economic significance of livestreaming, noting that TikTok remains one of the most accessible tools for young Nigerians seeking visibility, income, and digital growth.
