A 344-year-old tortoise in Ogbomoso's Soun palace, popularly known as Alagba, is dead. A few days before her demise on Thursday, the scared tortoise that was the oldest in Africa was sick.
On the ascension of the throne of the current Ogbomosoland Soun, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi, the tortoise became a popular breed with the monarch providing good shelter and health support to the tortoise during his earth stay.
Confirming the incident to the Nigerian Tribune, Oba Oyewumi's Private Secretary, Toyin Ajamu, stressed that the tortoise that attracted people from all walks of life from Nigeria and abroad will be greatly missed not only by the palace household, but by all those who came into contact with Alagba during their 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.
Source: Tribune Online
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