5 Myths and Legends About Aso Rock

Aso Rock is, of course, the largest and highest rock in Abuja and it is her most noticeable feature.

The three major seats of power of the Nigerian Federal Government are the Presidential Villa Complex also known Aso Villa, the National Assembly and the National Supreme Court, and all three surround the rock. The Aso Rock is said to have many myths and legends surrounding it. Here are few for you.

It is a place for worshipping deities: The city of Abuja was the home of Gbagyi people of Asokoro, who were the original occupants. They were the largest among the ethnic groups to inhabit the area and to this day they conduct their yearly festivals at Aso Rock before and after the rainy season. This is a local tradition allows the people to pay homage to the deities of Aso Rock to keep them healthy and prosperous.

It is an undefeated battle territory: According to the villagers, the Asokoro people have never been defeated in war since the beginning of their history and stories have it that whenever there is an invasion, the villages around and on top of the mountain would be thrown into pitch darkness making it impossible for the enemy to fight. It is worthy of note that in the Gbagyi dialect, the word ‘Aso’ means victory.

One must seek approval to hike up the Rock: One popular myth lets us know that there are local priests who reside in the villages who look after the rock and it’s often said that to hike the famous rock or enter any of its caves, one would need to get permission from the priests.

Discover undiscovered caves: Villagers claim that there are over ten caves in the rock but not all are accessible due to the thick forest surrounding the rock. A few hiking groups in Abuja have successfully hiked the rock, but it is advisable to go along with an experienced mountaineer so you can fully enjoy the experience.

Being greedy is taboo: A tale is told by the Gbagyi people about a pond at the top of the rock that never dries up. This pond is treasured by the villagers because of its cold and clean water running all seasons. The Gbagyi people believe that you should only take a portion of the water you’re able to finish, and anybody that fetches the water and spills or throws it away will be put under a curse by the Asokoro gods who are believed to be their protector.

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