“Why no one has ever fallen or died climbing the 137-metre tall rock since the existence of man.” Welcome to Nigeria.
Olumo Rock is a mountain in southwestern Nigeria. It is located in the city of Abeokuta, Ogun State, and was normally used as a natural fortress during inter-tribal warfare in the 19th century. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Nigeria with a captivating embodiment. Olumo rock is a classic that stands out among other tourist attractions in Ogun state.
One thing stands it out in particular; the blessings of nature. This gigantic mountain could be seen from different corners of Abeokuta city. It is not just a tourist attraction. It is a sacred ground, a symbol of freedom, strength, peace, and victory.
History of Olumo Rock
Olumo Rock was discovered by a hunter by the name Adagba, who used the rock as a means of fortress during the intertribal war in the 19th century. The Egbas were part of the Oyo Empire before the empire collapsed. The rock also served as a vantage point for the inhabitants at the time as it enabled them to have a clear view of enemy’s advancement in a war they eventually triumphed.
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The name “Olumo” is the combination of two words – “Olu” (God) and “Mo” (Moulded), the combination of these words is translated as “God has ended our troubles and sufferings”. Olumo Rock was turned into a tourist site in 1976 and commissioned on the 3rd of February 2006 by the former president of the country, Olusegun Obasanjo.
The rock comprises of statutes of Egba past heroes and different symbols of the Egba warriors like Ilesha Abi Agbongbakala, Agaba – the great hunter, Okunkenu – the first paramount ruler in Egba land, and Jagun Jagun – the sharp shooter and general in command.
During the rainy season, it was noted that Olumo Rock produced water that could be used by herbalists to cure diseases and sicknesses. However, it stopped producing water over 50 years ago.
The mountain also has artificial walkways and stairs to aid in climbing the 137-metre mountain.
Underneath the mountain lies the burial ground of one of the earliest residents of the Rock who was the right-hand chief of the then King, Chief Sonni Osi-Toko who died on the 23rd January 1956 at the age of 122 years.
Another fascinating fact about the rock is the presence of a tree that is claimed to be over 200 years old. This tree neither sheds its leaf throughout the year as it flourishes in dry and rainy season.
Who Is Chief Mrs. Sinatu Aduke Sanni?
Under Olumo rock lived Chief Mrs. Sinatu Aduke Sanni who is the “Iya Orisa Olumo” (Mother goddess of Olumo). She has lived her entire life under the famous rock. She is popularly known as Iya Olumo. She is in charge of Olumo Rock Shrine, where sacrifices are made to appeal to the gods of the rock.
Sinatu Aduke Sanni has been another tourist draw for many years since she provided unusual knowledge of the famed Olumo Rock. She remained the centre of attraction as she grew older.
Iya Olumo died at the age of 137. Before her death, she witnessed the coronation of six Alake of Egba land.
Late Iya Olumo had also become another attraction to tourists as she was always available to furnish visitors with information about the Rock.
Attractive Thing About Olumo Rock
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, they 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 monuments one will see include the First Church of Nigeria, the central mosque, the family house of late Moshood Abiola (M.K.O), the River Ogun, and Baptist Boys High School.
Olumo Rock stands at a height of 137 metres above sea level.
Facts About Olumo Rock
1. It is the location for the Olumo festival every year
2. No one has ever fallen or died climbing the rock. It is believed that the god of the rock guards and protects everyone that comes into the site.
3. The Rock stands at least 137 feet above sea level.
4. It has a cave where only two people are allowed to enter, the chief priest and the Alake of Egba land
