Popular TikToker Peller has publicly apologized after facing intense backlash for referring to Nigerian Afrobeats star Runtown as an “up-and-coming artist.”
The controversy started when Peller was on a recent livestream, engaging with fans and responding to suggestions for potential collaborations. During the session, a viewer recommended that Peller feature Runtown in his content, but Peller responded dismissively, implying that the artist was relatively unknown and had not made a significant impact in the music industry.
His remarks quickly gained traction online, with fans of Runtown and the Afrobeats community expressing outrage. Many users criticized Peller for being disrespectful, noting that Runtown has been a major influence in the Nigerian music scene for years, with hit songs like "Mad Over You" and "For Life." Others called out Peller’s ignorance, arguing that an artist of Runtown’s caliber should never be referred to as “up-and-coming.”
As the backlash intensified, Peller took to social media to issue a formal apology. In a heartfelt video, he admitted that he had spoken out of ignorance and acknowledged Runtown’s immense contribution to the music industry. He explained that during the peak of Runtown’s career, he was too young to fully appreciate his music and did not mean to disrespect him.
During a follow-up livestream with his girlfriend, Elizabeth Amoudu, Peller openly admitted his mistake and pleaded for forgiveness. He stated that he had no intention of belittling Runtown’s legacy and urged his critics to allow him to learn and grow from the situation.
“When I was hearing Runtown’s music that time, I was too young to even use a phone. Peller never come town when Runtown dey Runtown. Please, forgive the poor boy. Let him breathe. God won’t shame us. I’m sorry, my brothers and sisters,” he said.
The apology has sparked mixed reactions online, with some social media users accepting his explanation, while others argue that he should have been more informed before making such remarks.
Watch the video below …
@nelsonappy [/p]
@Amadou Elizabeth @jarpel001 #runtown #nelsonappy #peller #jarvis This post does NOT support any form of violence, bullying, or harassment.
♬ original sound – Nelson appy