The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has announced a ban on the consumption of alcohol within the palace and its surrounding premises, citing the need to uphold the sanctity of the royal environment.
The announcement was made on Saturday during a meeting with palace staff held in commemoration of the monarch’s 58th birthday. A video of the gathering, shared on Facebook by his Chief Press Secretary, Alli Ibraheem, captured the Oluwo addressing individuals seated outside the palace.
Speaking in Yoruba, Oba Akanbi emphasized the importance of living in holiness to reflect the spiritual values of the palace.
“This palace belongs to Olodumare, and there is a mosque nearby. We want our prayers answered swiftly. To make something holy, one must begin by living a holy life,” he said.
He urged those who wish to consume alcohol to do so outside the palace grounds. “If you want to drink, I beg you, go beyond this fence not here. I’m making this decision so I can be proud to associate with you,” the monarch added.
In the video, Ibraheem captioned the moment: “Birthday: Oluwo holds meeting with palace staff, bans alcohol intake, vows to make Iwo clean.”
Reinforcing his stance, the Oluwo declared, “We preach holiness. Anything involving alcohol or actions contrary to God’s will should not be allowed within this premises.”
The monarch’s decision has been met with widespread praise on social media. One user, Aare Ishola Ogunkoru, commented, “We are blessed to have you as our King. Continue to enjoy the grace of Almighty God, Oba wa.” Another, Ahmed Adeokin First, wrote, “May Almighty God make it an easy ride for my King. Nice move.
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