Alaafin of Oyo mourns 420-year-old tortoise's death

The palace of the Alaafin of Oyo, led by Oba Akeem Owoade, announced the death of a 420-year-old tortoise, referred to as Baba, on a Thursday. The tortoise died last Monday, as confirmed by Bode Durojaiye, the director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin.

Baba was considered the oldest indigene of Oyo and was cherished by the Alaafin, being the 22nd ruler to care for the tortoise. It was nourished by successive kings and was a vital part of the palace's heritage, embodying the oral history of the Yoruba people.

Baba fell ill and was unable to eat before passing away. The Alaafin plans to honor the tortoise's legacy, as it was a significant tourist attraction that drew many visitors to the palace.

Baba's diet included watermelon, corn pap wrapped in leaves, and grass, and he has since been buried.