Ogun ends Olumo Rock’s free entry policy
The Ogun State Government Thursday, announced the end to the free entry initiative to Olumo Rock Tourist Complex in Abeokuta, the state capital. Daily Trust reports that the government terminated the policy over the looming stampede following the surging crowd of visitors and fun seekers to the complex. In July, Governor Dapo Abiodun commissioned the […]
ogun state government
The Ogun State Government Thursday, announced the end to the free entry initiative to Olumo Rock Tourist Complex in Abeokuta, the state capital.
Daily Trust reports that the government terminated the policy over the looming stampede following the surging crowd of visitors and fun seekers to the complex.
In July, Governor Dapo Abiodun commissioned the newly renovated Olumo Rock Complex in Abeokuta and announced that entry to the facility will be free for all visitors until the end of September 2025.
The governor said the initiative is intended to promote tourism and cultural appreciation in the state.
However, clips showing a massive crowd at the tourist site went viral recently, with many expressing fears of a looming stampede.
Responding to the fear, the government on Thursday terminated the free entry effective from Saturday, August 23.
The government, in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, said at a certain point, the volume of the crowd posed risks that could have resulted in a stampede but for the swift and professional intervention of security agencies and on-site personnel.
The government expressed its profound appreciation to the general public, tourists, and visitors for the overwhelming and unprecedented turnout recorded at the newly renovated Olumo Rock Tourist Complex.
It said, “His Excellency graciously introduced a free entry initiative to give residents and visitors the opportunity to rediscover and appreciate the cultural and historical significance of Olumo Rock following its renovation. This objective has been fully achieved, with thousands of visitors taking advantage of the initiative.
“However, the unprecedented influx of visitors has raised concerns about overcrowding and public safety. At certain points, the volume of the crowd posed risks that could have resulted in a stampede but for the swift and professional intervention of security agencies and on-site personnel.
“In view of this, and in line with the government’s priority to safeguard lives, His Excellency has directed that the free entry initiative will come to an end on Saturday, 23rd August 2025. Thereafter, normal access procedures will resume.”