Atiba Book Club Congratulates New Alaafin, Oba Akeem Owoade I

 **ATIBA BOOK CLUB CONGRATULATES NEW ALAAFIN, OBA AKEEM OWOADE I**

The Atiba Book Club has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Oba Akeem Owoade I on his recent coronation as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, describing the ascension as a historic moment not only for the ancient town of Oyo but also for the preservation of Yoruba culture and traditions.

In a statement released on Friday and signed by the founder of the club, Mr. Wole Adedoyin, the literary body expressed solidarity with the new monarch, commending the process that led to his emergence as peaceful, inclusive, and a true reflection of the will of the people of Oyo.

Wole Adedoyin, while speaking on behalf of the club, noted that the Alaafin stool is not just a royal seat, but a cultural and intellectual symbol deeply rooted in the rich history of the Yoruba people. He expressed optimism that Oba Owoade I’s reign would bring renewed development, cultural revival, and unity to the Oyo Kingdom.

The Atiba Book Club also used the opportunity to applaud the traditional council and kingmakers for upholding the revered customs and age-long protocols associated with the selection of the Alaafin. According to the statement, their role in ensuring a smooth transition cannot be overemphasized.

The club highlighted the relevance of literature and cultural advocacy in royal courts, urging the new Alaafin to continue the legacy of intellectual promotion associated with past monarchs, especially the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who was known for his deep appreciation of history and scholarship.

“We believe that the palace should remain a citadel of learning and culture. Atiba Book Club stands ready to partner with the Alaafin-in-Council in promoting reading culture, Yoruba literature, and intellectual dialogue within and beyond the palace walls,” the statement read.

The club further emphasized that Oba Owoade I’s youthful energy and modern outlook position him uniquely to harmonize tradition with modern governance, which is critical to community advancement in today’s dynamic world.

As a literary group committed to community enlightenment, Atiba Book Club reiterated its dedication to supporting educational and cultural programs that align with the vision of the new Alaafin’s reign, including establishing reading hubs and organizing literary festivals in Oyo.

The statement also extended warm wishes to the royal family, the Oyomesi, and the entire people of Oyo, praying for divine guidance, wisdom, and good health for the newly crowned monarch throughout his reign.