420-YEAR-OLD TORTOISE ‘BABA’ DIES AT ALAafin’S PALACE IN OYO

An ancient tortoise popularly known as Baba, who had for generations been associated with the Alaafin’s Palace in Oyo, has died.

According to the palace’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, Baba died on Monday after reportedly falling ill and losing his appetite. He was subsequently buried.

Baba was traditionally estimated to be about 420 years old, with palace oral history claiming that he was brought from Oyo-Ile, the old capital of the Oyo Empire, to present-day Oyo.

For generations, the tortoise became part of palace life and was reportedly cared for by successive generations of Alaafins and palace officials.

Baba was more than just a palace animal to many residents and visitors. His presence became a symbol of Oyo’s history and a living link to generations of traditional rulers.

However, the 420-year age has not been scientifically verified and remains based on traditional accounts.

Baba’s story also recalls that of Alagba, the famous tortoise at the Soun of Ogbomoso’s palace, which reportedly died in 2019 after being traditionally estimated to be more than 300 years old.

The death of Baba marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the history and cultural memory of Oyo.