The Alaafin of Oyo palace has announced the passing of its oldest resident, a tortoise named Baba, on September 17, 2026. According to palace officials, Baba was more than just a pet; he was a representative of the ancestors and carried the history of the Oyo Kingdom and Empire. Baba had lived in the palace for centuries, migrating with the Oyo people from Old Oyo-Ile in the 18th century when they settled in Oyo Atiba.
Baba's exact age is unknown, but palace history suggests that he was over 400 years old. The Personal Assistant to the Alaafin, Rev. Dr. Kolade Oladele Olusola, described Baba as a symbol of Oyo's resilience and longevity. He said that Baba's behavior was not ordinary, and he seemed to be aware of the Alaafin's presence and absence. Baba would often pay homage to spiritually significant points within the palace and welcome visitors.
Baba lived at Agbala Koko inside the palace, where he roamed freely and had his own identifiable spots. He was fed a variety of foods, including pap, watermelon, pawpaw, and other fruits, as well as certain types of leaves and grass. Dr. Kolade expressed his emotional reaction to Baba's death, saying that he cried like a baby when he passed away. The palace is yet to decide whether to replace Baba.
The Kudefu of Oyo, Chief Wasiu Bolaji, corroborated the account of Baba's long life, saying that he predates Christianity and Islam in Oyo. He claimed that five kings, including Ladigbolu, Gbadegesin, Siyanbola Ladigbolu, Bello Gbadegesin, and Diran I, had all met and used Baba. Chief Bolaji stated that if the reigns of those kings are calculated, Baba's estimated age of 400 years is plausible.
According to Chief Bolaji, Baba showed signs of illness before his death, and the palace quickly realized that he was very old. He was given a traditional burial, with the Babalawos involved in the rituals and food preparation. Although the celebration was minimized due to the current situation in the country, the palace ensured that Baba received a befitting burial.
The palace may replace Baba soon, according to Chief Bolaji. He stated that the tortoise's duty to the palace would not be disclosed, but he would be greatly missed as one of the ancient things that the palace had and a record of their history. The Alaafin, Oba Abimbola Owoade, will decide whether to replace Baba.
Baba's legacy lives on as a symbol of Oyo's rich history and culture. His story has been passed down through generations, and his memory will continue to be cherished by the people of Oyo. The palace's decision to bury Baba in a traditional manner ensures that his legacy will endure for years to come.
Key points
- The tortoise, named Baba, was over 400 years old and had lived in the Oyo palace for centuries.
- Baba was a symbol of Oyo's resilience and longevity and was considered a representative of the ancestors.
- The palace may replace Baba soon, but a decision has not been made yet.
