The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has announced a ban on Hennessy and all other alcoholic beverages from his palace, declaring that such drinks should no longer be brought to him as gifts or consumed within the royal premises.

The monarch made the announcement on Wednesday, explaining that the decision was driven by health concerns and his commitment to preserving the sanctity of the palace.

According to Oba Akanbi, the palace is a sacred institution that should reflect discipline, dignity and moral values, stressing that alcoholic beverages have no place within its premises.

He specifically directed that Hennessy, whiskey, schnapps and other alcoholic drinks should no longer be presented to him during visits, ceremonies or other palace engagements.

The traditional ruler said the move aligns with his campaign for healthy living, noting that excessive alcohol consumption poses serious health risks, including damage to the liver and kidneys.

Oba Akanbi urged members of the public, guests and well-wishers to respect the new directive by refraining from bringing alcoholic drinks to the palace. He added that anyone who wishes to consume alcohol should do so outside the palace premises.

The Oluwo also emphasized that the decision reflects his personal convictions and his desire to maintain the palace as a place of honour, respect and spiritual significance.

This is not the first time the monarch has taken a stance against alcohol in the palace. In 2025, he prohibited the consumption of alcoholic beverages within the royal residence, describing the palace as a holy place that should not be associated with habits capable of undermining its sacredness.

The latest directive has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians, with some praising the monarch for promoting healthy living and discipline, while others argue that alcoholic beverages have traditionally formed part of gifts presented to royal fathers during cultural ceremonies.

Despite the differing opinions, the Oluwo maintained that the ban remains effective immediately and called on visitors and residents of the palace to comply with the directive.