A 344 year old Ogbomoso tortoise popularly known as ALAGBA in the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso passed on this week.
The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi had explained that plans are underway to preserve the oldest tortoise in Africa, Alagba’s body for historical records.
Confirming the ugly incident, 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.
Here are five things you need to about the oldest tortoise in Africa:
- Records have it that Alagba was born in the year 1675 in the old Oyo town, which is now being referred to as Ogbomoso. It is called Alagba, which means ”the elderly one” in Yoruba, because of the reference to her age.
- The revered reptile was apparently brought to the palace by the kingdom’s third leader, Isan Okumoyede, who reigned from 1770 to 1797.
- In Ogbomoso, where the legendary tortoise lumbers about in the palatial grounds of the king. The tortoise played host to many monarchs in Ogbomoso. The tortoise was thought to have healing powers and attracted visitors from far and wide.
- The tortoise had two staff members of the palace, dedicated to her.
- They provided food, health support and other logistics, so as to make sure she gets the best treatment. Oftentimes, Kabiyesi Oladunni Oyewumi shares great moments with Alagba.
