World famous Tortoise Alagba, who resided in the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oyewunmi, has died at the age of 344.
Private Secretary to the monarch, Toyin Ajamu, confirmed the death to newsmen in Ogbomoso on Thursday.
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Mr Ajamu said that the tortoise, which he described as the oldest in Africa, died on Thursday during a brief illness.
He said the tortoise, which attracted visitors from Nigeria and abroad, will be greatly missed not only by the palace household but by everyone who came in contact with it.
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“Alagba 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.
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“Oftentimes, Kabiyesi shares 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 passage,” he said.
Ajamu explained that plans are underway to preserve Alagba’s body for history.
