Baba, the tortoise believed to have lived for about 420 years and regarded in palace tradition as one of the oldest animals in Yorubaland, died on Monday after a brief illness.

His death has not only ended the life of an unusually old tortoise but has also brought to an end a remarkable chapter in the oral history of the Oyo Kingdom.

Here are 10 key facts about the legendary tortoise:

1. Baba was believed to be 420 years old

Baba was believed to have lived for about 420 years, making him one of the oldest animals associated with Yorubaland. His extraordinary age made him a unique presence in the Alaafin’s palace.

2. He was regarded as the oldest “indigene” of Oyo

According to the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Bode Durojaiye, Baba was regarded in Oyo as the oldest indigene because of his extraordinary longevity.

3. Baba was inherited by successive Alaafins

The Oyo palace tortoise reportedly lived through the reigns of several Alaafins. Successive monarchs inherited him as part of the palace’s historical relics, making him a constant presence across generations of the Oyo royal institution.

4. He was reportedly brought from ancient Oyo-Ile

Oral history in the palace holds that Baba was brought from Oyo-Ile, the ancient capital of the old Oyo Empire, to the present palace in Oyo town. His story therefore became linked to both the ancient and modern Oyo kingdoms.

5. He was more than a palace pet

Baba’s status went beyond that of an ordinary animal. Durojaiye described him as representing part of the oral history of the Yoruba people, with his long life connecting generations of the Oyo Kingdom.

6. Baba was a major attraction for visitors

The ancient tortoise reportedly attracted visitors from different places to the Alaafin’s palace. Many people who visited Oyo made it a point to see Baba, turning him into one of the palace’s notable attractions.

7. Two officials were assigned to care for him

Because of his special status, two palace officials were reportedly assigned to cater to Baba’s welfare. His favourite foods included watermelon, corn pap wrapped in leaves and grass.

8. He died after a brief illness

Baba reportedly fell ill on Monday, stopped eating and died a few hours later. His death brought an end to a remarkable presence that had survived generations of kings.

9. He was buried inside the palace

Following his death, Baba was buried within the Alaafin’s palace. His burial reflected the special place he occupied in the royal household and in the palace’s history.

10. His remains may be preserved for future generations

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade I, is reportedly making plans to preserve Baba’s remains. The move is intended to ensure that the ancient tortoise continues to serve as a physical reminder of Oyo’s history and traditions for generations to come. (Nigerian Tribune)