Professor Peller, born Moshood Abiola Peller in 1941 in Iseyin, Oyo State, Nigeria, was one of Africa’s most famous magicians and illusionists. While growing up, he was nicknamed Moshood Olori Pupa (Moshood the Red-Headed Boy).
He gained national and international fame in the 20th century for his unique magical performances that combined elements of illusion, sleight of hand, and dramatic showmanship. Coming from a humble background, he initially worked as a tailor before his passion for magic took over.
Peller began practicing magic in the 1950s and later traveled to India and other parts of the world to study the art of illusion. Upon his return to Nigeria, he revolutionized stage entertainment with shows that drew massive crowds. He became a household name in Nigeria during the 1970s and 1980s, captivating audiences with incredible tricks like disappearing acts, levitation, and mind reading. His charisma, mystique, and elaborate costumes set a new standard for performance art in the country.
Despite being seen by some as practicing the occult due to the mysterious nature of his performances, Professor Peller maintained that his magic was based on science and illusion, not supernatural powers. Sadly, his life was cut short when he was assassinated on August 2, 1997, under mysterious circumstances. Even decades after his death, Professor Peller remains a legendary figure in Nigerian popular culture and is remembered as the pioneer of modern magic in Africa.
