A  tortoise popularly known as Alagba at the palace of Soun of Ogbomoso in Oyo State has died.

The 344-year-old sacred tortoise said to be the oldest in Africa was sick for a few days before its death on Thursday.

Alagba became a popular breed upon the ascension of the throne of the current Soun of Ogbomoso land, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi.

The monarch provided good shelter and health support for the tortoise before it died.

A Private Secretary to Oba Oyewumi, Toyin Ajamu said the tortoise, which attracted tourists from different parts of the world would be missed not only by people in the palace but everyone who came in contact with it.

The palace secretary explained that plans are underway to preserve Alagba’s body for historical records.