- Safiu Kehinde
The Ogun State Government has announced the cancellation of its two-month free entry to the newly renovated Olumo Rock Tourist Complex over safety concerns.
NPO Reported that the state governor, Dapo Abiodun, had last month declared the free entry initiative in an effort to encourage people to embrace tourism as well as appreciate the richness of state’s culture.
However, as against the September deadline for the initiative, the state government in a statement issued on Thursday by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Tokunbo Talabi, announced that the free entry will end on Saturday 23rd of August.
While appreciating the general public, tourists, and visitors for their turnout since the declaration by the governor, the state government raised concerns about the overcrowding experienced in the last three weeks at the complex.
The volume of the crowd, according to the statement, posed risks that could have resulted in a stampede which led to the governor’s declaration of the free entry stoppage.
The statement read in part; “The Ogun State Government wishes to express 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.
“This remarkable response is a testament to the vision and commitment of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, in repositioning Olumo Rock as a world-class tourist destination of pride for Ogun State, Nigeria, and the global community.
“As part of this vision, 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.
“The Ogun State Government regrets any inconvenience this adjustment may cause and assures the public of its unwavering commitment to providing a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience for all visitors to the Olumo Rock Tourist Complex.”