A tragic wildlife incident has claimed the life of one resident and left another missing in Innayin Community, Oyo State, after a wild elephant reportedly invaded the area.
The attack occurred on Thursday afternoon at about 3:30 p.m., throwing the community into panic as residents fled for safety.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson of the Oyo State Police Command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said security operatives responded swiftly after receiving a distress call from the community.
“The command received information about the sudden appearance of a wild elephant in Innayin Community on April 23, 2026. Our officers, working with local vigilantes and hunters, immediately mobilised to the scene,” Olayinka stated.
According to him, the body of a 45-year-old man, identified as Ibrahim Tijani, was discovered in a nearby bush with injuries consistent with an animal attack.
“Upon arrival, operatives found the lifeless body of Ibrahim Tijani. His remains have been evacuated to the General Hospital in Iwere-Ile for necessary procedures,” he added.
The police also confirmed that another resident, 50-year-old Muhammadu Bingin, went missing following an encounter with the elephant. Search efforts are currently ongoing.
“We have intensified search operations to locate the missing ব্যক্তি, and all necessary resources are being deployed to ensure he is found,” Olayinka said.
Security personnel, alongside local hunters and vigilantes, have since been stationed in the area to contain the situation and prevent further casualties.
The police urged residents to avoid the affected locations and report any sightings of the animal, stressing the importance of prioritising safety while also observing wildlife protection laws.
“We appeal to members of the public to remain calm, stay away from the vicinity of the incident, and promptly alert authorities if the animal is sighted,” the spokesperson cautioned.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Abimbola Olugbenga, reassured residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the community.
“Our officers are on ground and collaborating with relevant agencies to bring the situation under control. We are committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property,” he said.
Authorities also disclosed that wildlife experts, including officials from the National Park Service, are being engaged to provide guidance on safely managing the situation.
