344-year-old tortoise known as Alagba in the Palace of Soun of Ogbomosho is dead.
The sacred tortoise which was the oldest tortoise in Africa was reportedly ill for a few days before her demise on Thursday.
It was gathered that the sacred tortoise has been living in the palace for centuries and has hosted many past kings in the ancient town of Ogbomosho but became popular during the reign of current Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi.
Good shelter and adequate health support were provided during the tortoise sojourn on earth, more so, upon the ascension of the throne of the current Soun of Ogbomosholand, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi who took the welfare and good conditions of the tortoise as a top priority.
The Private Secretary to Oba Oladunni, Toyin Ajamu confirmed the death of the sacred tortoise, Alagba and told newsmen that Alagba will be greatly missed by the palace household and every person who came in contact with him or might have heard his story.
Ajamu further said; “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.“
Toyin Ajamu revealed that there are plans underways to preserve the body of the sacred tortoise for historical records.
