The Ede Descendants Union, EDU, has officially reappointed renowned cultural ambassador and CEO of Aafin Ilu, Prince Adewale Laoye, as Chairman of the 2026 Aji La’La Oso Festival Planning Committee.
The appointment, conveyed in an official letter dated April 15, 2026 and signed by the Secretary of the Union, Mr. Yisa Oyekanmi, comes on the heels of the remarkable success recorded during the 2025 edition of the festival under Prince Laoye’s leadership.
According to the Union, the decision to reappoint Prince Laoye was based on his “vast experience and dexterity” which enabled him to successfully execute the 2025 Aji La’La Oso Festival “with a noticeable difference.” The Union further expressed confidence in his ability to introduce innovative strategies and deliver an even more outstanding outing for the 2026 edition.
The letter described the appointment as both “enviable and admirable,” while assuring the Chairman of the Union’s full support and cooperation towards the success of the festival.
Prince Adewale Laoye, a proud son of Edeland and descendant of the legendary Oba John Adetoyese Laoye, Timi of Ede, has continued to gain recognition for his relentless efforts in preserving and promoting Yoruba culture through drumming, arts, heritage advocacy, and youth-centered cultural initiatives. Through Aafin Ilu, also known as the Palace of Drum, he has consistently projected Ede and Osun State positively on both national and international platforms.
The Aji La’La Oso Festival remains one of the most significant cultural celebrations in Edeland, attracting indigenes, visitors, cultural enthusiasts, clubs, and families from across Nigeria and beyond. The festival is celebrated annually on the third day of the Ileya Festival, with this year’s venue scheduled to hold at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Ede, Osun State.
Following the impressive organization, cultural displays, and increased participation witnessed during the 2025 edition, expectations are already high for this year’s celebration. Sources within the Planning Committee revealed that preparations are underway to make the 2026 edition bigger, more colorful, and culturally transformative.
Stakeholders and community leaders have also applauded the Union’s decision to retain Prince Laoye, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his visionary leadership, passion for cultural preservation, and commitment to the advancement of Edeland.
With preparations gradually gathering momentum, many residents and sons and daughters of Ede have expressed optimism that the 2026 Aji La’La Oso Festival will further elevate the cultural prestige of the ancient town and strengthen its position as a major hub for Yoruba cultural tourism.
