History of Olumo Rock
Olumo rock, is one of the major tourist attractions in Nigeria with a captivating embodiment. Olumo rock is located in Abeokuta is a classic that stands out among other tourist attractions in Ogun state. With its surrounding lush history, Olumo rock will never cease to bring tourists to wonder at how rocks can tell stories on their own.
One thing stands out in particular; the blessings of nature. It cannot be faulted that at least every state in the country, including the F.C.T, has something naturally distinct about it. It is in this light, Ogun state, one of the six states in the southwest geo-political zone is unique for its own beautiful piece of nature strategically located in the state capital, Abeokuta.
The state capital Abeokuta, translated into English means “Under The Rock”, is known for this beautiful piece of nature standing at a height of 137metres and strategically located at the centre of the state capital – Olumo Rock.
According to legend, Olumo Rock was discovered by a hunter named Adagba, who utilized it as a fortification during the 19th century intertribal fighting. Before the Oyo Empire fell apart, the Egbas were a part of it. The rock also functioned as a lookout post for the locals at the time, giving them a clear view of the enemy’s progress in a conflict they finally won.
The name “Olumo” is made up of two words: “Olu” (God) and “Mo” (Moulded). When these two words are combined, it means “God has ended our troubles and sufferings.” In 1976, Olumo Rock was converted into a tourist attraction, and Olusegun Obasanjo, the country’s former president, commissioned it on February 3, 2006.
Statues of Egba past heroes and symbols of Egba warriors such as Ilesha Abi Agbongbakala, Agaba – the great hunter, Okonkenu – the first supreme monarch in Egba territory, and Jagun Jagun – the keen shooter and general in command can be found on the rock.
It was discovered that Olumo Rock produced water that herbalists might utilize to cure ailments and ailments during the rainy season. However, it hasn’t produced water in almost 50 years, and nearby is the tomb of Sonni Osi-Toko, a 122-year-old chief who died on January 3, 1956, at the age of 122.
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The existence of a tree that is said to be over 200 years old is another remarkable feature of the rock. This tree does not shed its leaves throughout the year and thrives in both dry and wet seasons.
Chief Mrs. Sinatu Aduke Sanni, also known as Iya Orisa, has spent almost her whole 133 years on earth living under the rock. She has seen four kings of Egba Land – Alake of Egba Land – be crowned. She believes that the deity of the rock protects them and grants them all of their wishes.
The tourist attraction has recently been renovated, and an elevator has been added for those who do not wish to climb the stairwells between the rocks to reach the summit. There is also a museum, an eatery, a market where visitors can purchase various types of tie-dye clothing materials, and a water fountain as side attractions.
Olumo Rock at its Finest
As previously stated, Olumo Rock is 137 meters above sea level, which is over half the height of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, which is 300 meters. Furthermore, the height of Olumo Rock cannot be compared to Zuma Rock, which stands at 725 meters above sea level in Abuja, the state capital.
One of the attractive thing about Olumo Rock however is the fact that it is easy to climb. Even before the recent renovations, Olumo Rock had stairs carved into it for easy climbing. For those who do not wish to go through climbing through the rocks can use staircases or elevators to reach the summit.
At the top of the rock is a beauty to behold. One will be able to see the view of Abeokuta all covered in red corrugated roofs paralleled by thick green forests that melts into the horizon. Some distinct monument one will see includes the First Church of Nigeria, the central mosque, the family of house late Moshood Abiola (M.K.O), the River Ogun and Baptist Boys High School.
Olumo Rock’s location
Olumo Rock is located in the heart of Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, at the exact intersection of Ijemo-Alape Road and Ita-Bayinbo Street in the Ikija district of the state’s Abeokuta North local government.
If you follow the A5 route through Papalanto, it would take you around 1 hour 45 minutes to go to Olumo Rock from Lagos.
Those who like to travel by public transportation can take a cab from Kuto Motor Park to Ikija, Olumo Rock for approximately #100 – #150. Alternatively, for the same price, take a cab to Sapon or Itoku and then another to Ikija.
Olumo Rock has a gate fee.
Tourists are the source of income for Olumo Rock. Adult tickets cost 700 naira, while children’s tickets cost 500 naira. If you wish to utilize the elevator, however, the cost can reach 2000 naira. For those who drive, there is a cost of as little as 300 naira to utilize the car park.
At Olumo Rock, hire a tourist guide.
On arrival at Olumo Rock, you are faced with the beautiful water fountain and sweet sensation eatery to your right as you approach the stairs. For those interested in history, there are very friendly locals who are always ready to take you on a journey and tell you all you need to know about the amazing piece of nature. They even have other shortcuts that take you to the summit faster than the visible stair cases. They are ready to tell the stories of the caves, tombs and shrines all scattered at the base of the rock.
Most of them do not charge you but will tell you to tip them as you deem fit.
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Climbing Advice
Try wearing a fitted trouser if you wish to maneuver the rocks and stairs to get to the top. As mentioned earlier, even an agbada clothing would not be an issue as long as you are using the artificial stairs or elevators.
Do not wear slippery footwear to climb the rocks. It is said that no one has ever died climbing the rocks since it became a tourist destination. Do not be the first.
Go with a bottle of water either in a small backpack or side strap. You will need it at the top.
Do not forget your camera.
Olumo Rock provides lodging.
Those looking for a place to stay during their visit can choose from a number of hotels. Daktad Suites, off Quarry Road, is about a 20-minute drive from Olumo Rock, and Dusmar Hotel, Kuto alongside June 12 Cultural Centre, is about a 10- to 15-minute drive away.
