Today is excursion day. Thus, in the afternoon we went to Abeokuta, about 100km from Legos, where Obasanjo was born raised, to visit Olumo Rock, which looks like a pregnant woman. Olumo Rock is a popular tourist attraction located in the city of Abeokuta (means “Under the rock”), Ogun State, at the south western part of Nigeria. It was used as a stronghold by the Egba people in the early 19th century. Olumo rock, has a height of 137 metres above sea level. Abeokuta was originally inhabited by the Egba People who found refuge at the Olumo rock during intertribal wars in the 19th century. The rock provided sanctuary to the people as well as a vantage point to monitor the enemy’s advance leading to eventual victory in war. The town of Abeokuta eventually grew as these new settlers spread out from this location.
Climbing to the top of the rock was a very difficult task for any tourist as it did not have any proper way to climb up. Then in 1984 the government of Nigeria build a formal steer and elevator to climb up to the top. The rock has three levels, and the second level is still serve as praying place, where the followers scarify black cow every year. This is where we found a 133 yrs old woman, they call her chief. She is a descendent of Olumo. We also climbed up to the top of the third floor, where you can have a magnificent 360 degree view of the entire Abeokuta city. Finally, after we enjoyed the view, we all come down to the small park at the base of the rock; and we had our packed lunch there. It was a good picnic. According to the plan, the next stop would have been President Obasanjo' s presidential library. However, we were told at the last minute that, we couldn't be able to reach there before they close the library. Instead we stopped at the city and look around the market.
This is Olumo Rock, looking from the bottom
At the base of the rock there is a historical and cultural gallery; and I found this little thing (the Ethiopian called it 'Zagol'); well it was used as currency of Nigeria until they introduced there paper bills and coins!
Part of the group, ready to climb up, refused to take stairs.
These hols were used to grind food items!
According to the poster shown, this lucky lady is 133yrs old!
Partial group picture at the top of the rock!
At the top of the rock with magnificent view of the city!
Typical street market at Abeokuta
360 degree scan of the market
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