A 324-year-old tortoise popularly known as Alagba,
in the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso, is dead.
The scared tortoise which was the oldest in Africa,
was sick for a few days before her demise on
Thursday.
The tortoise became a popular breed upon
ascension of the throne of the current Soun of
Ogbomosoland, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi with the
monarch providing good shelter and health support
for the tortoise during its sojourn on earth.
Confirming the incident by the Private Secretary to
Oba Oyewumi, Toyin Ajamu, stressed that the
tortoise, which attracted people from all walks of
life from Nigeria and abroad, will be greatly missed
not only by the palace household but everyone who
came in contact with Alagba during her lifetime.
According to Ajamu: “Alagba had lived in the
palace for centuries. The tortoise played host to
many monarchs in Ogbomoso in the past. Alagba
became popular because Oba Oladunni Oyewumi,
Soun of ogbomosoland, used his personal
resources to cater for her well being.
“The tortoise had two staff members of the palace,
dedicated to her.
They provide food, health support
and other logistics, so as to make sure she gets
the best treatment.
Often times, Kabiyesi shared
great moments with Alagba. On a daily basis,
Alagba, had tourists visiting her from different part
of the world. The palace household, Ogbomoso
community and stakeholders in the tourism sector
are mourning Alagba’s passing. “
The palace secretary explained that plans were
underway to preserve Alagba’s body for historical
records.
Young-po Reporters 