A tortoise, which officials say was more than 300 years old, has died in
Ogbomoso, an old city in south-west Nigeria.
The reptile, known as Alagba, was acclaimed for its healing powers and
lived in the palace of a traditional leader, the Soun of Ogbomoso.
Tortoises are known for their longevity and are thought to be able to live
up to at least 150 years.
Ogbomoso town crier Samuel Ojo said Alagba was brought into the palace by
the third traditional ruler of the city, Isan Okumoyede, over three centuries
ago and lived for 344 years.
Palace private secretary Toyin Ajamu said the present traditional ruler,
Oba Oladunni Oyewumi, plans to preserve Alagba’s remains for tourism and
historical records.
Ajamu said that the tortoise died after few days of illness.
She was popular both in and outside the city for her alleged healing powers
and attracted tourists on a daily basis.