Alagba, Nigeria’s royal tortoise, is said to be the oldest in Africa, lived to the age of 344 before dying on October 3, 2019. Alagba, a historical character, lived in the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso in Oyo State and passed away during the reign of Oba Oladunni Oyewumi.
Here are some fascinating facts about Ogbomosho Tortoise Alagba that will impress you:
Alagba had at least two carers dedicated to its needs, a modest apartment within the palace, and was given the same food as people, including plantain, rice, and beans when it was still alive.
Alagba, which means elder in Yoruba, was believed to have been brought to the palace by Isah Okumoyede, the third Soun of Ogbomoso, who reigned from 1770 to 1797, when he returned from a successful expedition over 200 years ago, indicating that the tortoise lived through the reigns of 18 Ogbomoso monarchs.
People who came to see the animal prayed to it since it was thought to have healing powers and was frequently connected with blessings, longevity, and protection for the palace and town. While Alagba was alive, it drew tourists from all over.
The present ruler, Oba Afolabi Olaoye, has stated that he intends to preserve the remains for tourism and historical purposes.
Surprisingly, Alagbawa was classified as an African spur-thighed tortoise rather than a giant tortoise as one might assume given its age.
