ART AND CULTURE CENTRE

Aafin Ìlù (meaning "Palace of Drum") is a cultural center in Ede, Osun State, founded and led by Prince Adewale Laoye, also known as the "Drummer of Peace" and CEO of Aafin Ìlù in . The center honors the legacy of his father, Oba John Adetoyese Laoye I the legendary “Drummer King” and serves as a hub for preserving and promoting arts, culture and heritage.

The centre was formally known as Rhatdrum founded in 2012 before it became a full blown Cultural Centre and rebranded to Aafin Ilu in 2020.

CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

Aafin Ìlù is more than just a performance venue, it’s a cultural and art educational center, offering guided tours, drum exhibits, performing arts training, art exhibitions and cultural outreach. Visitors can view artworks, drums, learn historical context, appreciate Yoruba musicology, and engage in storytelling rooted in tradition.

Highlights & achievements

• Organisers of the Ajilala Oso Festival. We are approved by Osun state government and the King of Ede as the official organisers of the festival in order to make it international standard like the Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu.
• Art exhibitions since 2016. We curate and showcase artistic works that celebrates culture. We have had participants from across the globe.
• 2024 APDON (Osun State): Prince Laoye received an Award of Excellence for his cultural advocacy through Aafin Ìlù.
• 2025 Exhibition: A week-long showcase of rare photographs and visuals celebrating the “Drummer King” marked 50 years since Oba Laoye’s passing, opening Aafin Ìlù’s doors to the public.