The historic palace of the Alaafin of Oyo has announced the death of Baba, a legendary tortoise believed to have lived for about 420 years within the palace.
Baba was regarded as one of the oldest living creatures associated with Yorubaland and was said to have been brought from the ancient Oyo-Ile, the historic settlement from which the Oyo Kingdom emerged.
For generations, the tortoise was reportedly cared for by successive Alaafins, gradually becoming more than just a palace animal. Baba came to symbolise a living connection between the present Oyo royal institution and the kingdom’s ancient history.
The tortoise also attracted visitors who were interested in the cultural heritage and history of the ancient Oyo Kingdom.
According to accounts surrounding its long history, Baba fell ill before his death and was subsequently buried.
His passing marks the end of the life of an animal that, according to palace accounts, had witnessed generations of Oyo royalty and remained a remarkable symbol of the kingdom’s enduring cultural heritage.
The death of Baba has also renewed attention on the rich history and traditions preserved within the ancient Oyo royal institution.
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