Was Alagba, the now deceased famed tortoise of Ogbomoso, truly 344 years?

Said to be the oldest tortoise in Africa, Alagba, resident at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oyewumi, died on Thursday, reportedly at the age of 344.

The tortoise, which was named Alagba due to its age was said to have witnessed three centuries plus a few decades before it passed after a brief illness.

It was gathered that the tortoise, which had become one of the tourist attractions in the palace, had fallen sick a few days ago.

But Alagba’s reported age is sure to spark controversy given that the Guinness World Records lists Jonathan, a tortoise, born circa 1832, about 187 years old this year, as the verified oldest-known land animal alive in the world as at February of 2019.

It was learnt that Alagba became a prominent figure during the reign of the current monarch.

The monarch was said to have provided good shelter and health support for the tortoise during its sojourn on earth.

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The death of the said oldest tortoise was confirmed by the private Secretary to the monarch, Toyin Ajamu.

According to Ajamu, 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 its lifetime.

He said, ”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 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”.

Ajamu explained further that plans were underway to preserve Alagba’s body for historical records.

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