The management of Nigerian streamer Peller has admitted to an error after he was publicly snubbed by American livestreamer iShowSpeed during the latter’s recent visit to Lagos, sparking widespread reaction online.

iShowSpeed, who is touring parts of Africa, declined to engage with Peller on two occasions in Lagos last week, with security preventing the Nigerian content creator from approaching him. Footage of the encounters quickly spread across social media, drawing criticism from some users who described the incident as disrespectful, while others questioned how Peller’s team handled the situation.

Addressing the backlash, Peller’s manager Bosa Lee said the issue came down to positioning.

“I had already reached out to their team,” Lee said. “But he was clear that he was not collaborating with streamers. Looking back, introducing Peller as a streamer was likely the mistake.”

iShowSpeed later said his African tour was aimed at showcasing culture and discovering emerging talent across the continent, rather than participating in influencer collaborations.

The episode has renewed debate around branding, access, and expectations as global creators increasingly engage with Africa’s fast-growing digital culture.