Oluwo of Iwo Bans Alcohol Gifts at Palace, Warns Visitors Against Bringing Drinks

(Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi. Photo Credit: Guardian Nigerian News)

Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo, has forbidden the giving of Hennessy and other alcoholic beverages within his palace, warning guests not to present such presents to him and other traditional elders.

In a statement shared on social media, the monarch expressed concern about the health implications of alcoholic drinks customarily offered to traditional rulers and elders, asserting that such beverages are detrimental to wellbeing and can lead to death.

The traditional ruler warned that anyone bringing alcohol to the palace harbours ill intentions toward him.

He elaborated that gin and schnapps reserved for the elderly should not be brought to his residence, claiming these Western-produced drinks are designed to harm and destroy vital organs, particularly the kidneys.

He specifically addressed recent reports that visitors had brought Hennessy to the palace, stating that such actions demonstrate an intention to eliminate him and questioning why he would consume an entire bottle when he needs to pray.

Oba Akanbi contended that alcohol consumption is inconsistent with Yoruba ancestral practices and traditions.

Beyond the alcohol ban, he also criticised certain traditional customs, characterising the practice of masquerades inflicting violence on members of the public as unacceptable.

He additionally objected to movement restrictions enforced during the Oro festival, arguing that such prohibitions are unconstitutional and unlawful, even for the president, and questioned the justification for restricting women’s freedom of movement during specified traditional ceremonies.