Ogun ends free access to Olumo rock

The Ogun State Government has announced that free entry to the renovated Olumo Rock Tourist Complex will end on Saturday, August 23, citing safety concerns arising from overcrowding.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the governor’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, said the decision followed an unprecedented surge of visitors after the site’s relaunch.

Governor Dapo Abiodun expressed appreciation to tourists and residents for the massive turnout, describing it as proof of his administration’s commitment to repositioning Olumo Rock as a world-class destination.

He explained that the free access initiative was designed to enable people rediscover the cultural and historical value of the monument. “This objective has been fully achieved with thousands of visitors taking advantage of the initiative,” he noted.

Abiodun, however, raised concerns about public safety, saying the large crowds posed potential risks. “At certain points, the crowd posed risks that could have led to a stampede but for the swift intervention of security agencies and on-site personnel,” he said.

The governor directed that paid entry would resume on August 23, assuring that the government remains committed to ensuring tourists have a safe and memorable experience at the site.