How 344-Year Old Sacred Tortoise Died In Oba’s Palace

MICHAEL AKINOLA

Facts have emerged on how the 344-year old sacred tortoise, popularly known as Alagba, died in the royal palace of HRM Oba Jimoh Oyewumi, in Ogbomosho, which threw the community into mourning.

P.M.EXPRESS confirmed that the tortoise was said to be the oldest in Africa and had outlived many Obas in the ancient city before it eventually died recently.
It was also gathered that the tortoise was seen by the community as sacred that had spiritual powers to the benefit of the people in the community even during the time of war in the olden days. All the past monarchs including the present Oba Oyewumi were said to be aware of the historical life of Alagba and had always taken care of the tortoise before it died after a brief illness associated with old age.

The death of the tortoise was announced by the Private Secretary to Oba Oyewumi, Toyin Ajamu, who broke the news of the death of the tortoise, which had turned Ogbomoso to a tourism centre, would be missed greatly.
He said the tortoise, which was popularly called Alagba (elderly), had lived in the palace for centuries, saying 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 shares great moments with Alagba. On a daily basis, Alagba had tourists visiting her from different parts of the world. The palace household, Ogbomoso community and stakeholders in the tourism sector are mourning Alagba’s passage.”
The palace secretary added that plans were underway to embalm Alagba’s body for historical records.