Abeokutas

Abeokutas are the residents of Abeokuta, the capital city of Ogun State in southwestern Nigeria. The name Abeokuta, derived from Yoruba, is often linked to the city’s famous Olumo Rock, a fortress that historically offered protection to its inhabitants. The city lies along the Ogun River and has long served as a major urban and commercial center in the region.

Historically, Abeokuta was founded in the early 19th century by the Egba, a Yoruba subgroup, as a refuge during inter-communal conflicts. It grew rapidly as a political and economic hub for the Egba people and became a focal point of trade and diplomacy in the area. The city later became part of the colonial system and, after Nigeria’s independence, developed into the administrative center of Ogun State when the state was created in 1976. The Olumo Rock fortress remains a prominent symbol of Abeokuta’s heritage and a key landmark for residents and visitors.

Culturally, Abeokutas share Yoruba linguistic and religious traditions, with local customs and festivities reflecting the Egba heritage within the broader Yoruba identities. The economy of Abeokuta is diversified, with commerce, manufacturing, agriculture, and services playing important roles. The city hosts markets, educational institutions, and cultural sites that reflect a long history of trade and urban development in southwestern Nigeria.