The passing of the 84-year-old legendary crocodile in Ibadan has sparked an outpouring of tributes and mourning from both locals and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Residents of the Oje area of Ibadan in Ibadan North East local Government yesterday rushed out to catch a glimpse of a crocodile that died after 84 years.
The crocodile, before its death on Thursday, was tamed at the popular Delesolus Palace, Ibadan.
During its lifetime, it attracted many tourists to the ancient city of Ibadan as a result of its uniqueness.
When speaking about the mysterious crocodile, the head of the family and a very respected Chief in Ibadan land, Chief Raufu Yusuff Delesolu (Ayingun Olubadan), said it was brought to the Igbejo Delesolu in 1940 after the first one was bought by some white men. Since then, it has been in Delesolus compound until its demise today.
Chief Raufu explained that people from various backgrounds, including Africans and white visitors, enjoyed seeing and feeding the crocodile with different foods. He mentioned that the crocodile had been around for about 84 years, predating his own birth.
Contrary to speculation, Chief Raufu clarified that the crocodile was not worshipped as a deity by their ancestors but was instead treated as a cherished pet. He reminisced about times when the crocodile would venture out during heavy rains, prompting a search by men in the compound to bring it back safely.
While the family mourns the loss of the crocodile, they are making arrangements for its burial within the family compound. Despite this loss, there are still other tourist attractions within the compound and Oje community, with plans to potentially acquire another pet to continue preserving their heritage.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
Copyright © 2006 – 2024 Osun Defender, All rights reserved.