Following an attack by a wild elephant in Innayin Community, Oyo State, one person has been confirmed deceased and another has been reported missing.
The elephant’s unexpected presence was reported by locals at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Thursday.
This was revealed in a statement by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the spokesperson for the state police command.
He stated that after getting a distress call from the community, agents quickly arrived in coordination with local hunters and vigilantes.
“The Oyo State Police Command would like to notify the public of an unfortunate event involving a wild elephant invading Innayin Community on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at approximately 1530HRS.
Police officers quickly mobilized to the scene after receiving a distress call, working with local hunters and vigilantes. The statement stated that upon arrival, the lifeless body of 45-year-old Ibrahim Tijani “M” was found in a nearby thicket with injuries consistent with an animal assault.
The victim’s remains have been transported to the General Hospital in Iwere-Ile for analysis and preservation, Olayinka continued.
He added that following an encounter with the beast, Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin, a 50-year-old local, was reported missing.
Another person, 50-year-old Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin ‘M,’ was reported missing during ongoing search activities following an encounter with the same animal. The statement further stated that “intensive efforts are currently underway to locate him.”
According to the command, in order to control the situation and stop more casualties, it had sent out operatives with local hunters and vigilantes.
Residents of Innayin and other settlements were advised to maintain composure, stay away from the impacted region, and report any sightings of the animal right away.
“The command emphasizes the need of managing such situations with proper consideration to wildlife conservation rules, even as efforts are ongoing to secure the community.
Olayinka stated, “Relevant authorities, including the National Park Service Nigeria, are being engaged to provide expert guidance on safely managing the situation.”
Residents were also guaranteed of their safety by Abimbola Olugbenga, the state’s commissioner of police.
“We are aware of the worries this occurrence has caused in the community. In order to safeguard the area and stop additional casualties, our officers are fully present and collaborating with pertinent stakeholders.
As we work to bring the situation under control in a safe and professional manner, we appeal to residents to remain calm, avoid the affected locations, and continue to cooperate with the police and other authorities,” he stated.
The police encouraged ongoing cooperation with security services and expressed gratitude for the people’ assistance.
