There was palpable fear among residents of Innayin community in Oyo State on Thursday, after a wild elephant stormed the area, killing one man and leaving another missing in what authorities described as a unfortunate wildlife encounter.
The spokesman of Oyo State Police command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, confirmed the incident in a statement.
He said the incident occurred at about 3:30pm on April 23, 2026.
“Upon receiving a distress call, police operatives, in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, swiftly mobilized to the scene,” the statement read.
The police image maker said the body of 45-year-old Ibrahim Tijani was discovered in a nearby bush.
“On arrival, the lifeless body of one Ibrahim Tijani ‘M’, aged 45 years, was discovered in a nearby bush with injuries consistent with an animal attack,” the Command said, adding that his remains had been evacuated to the General Hospital, Iwere-Ile, for examination and preservation.
Olayinka also disclosed that a second victim, identified as 50-year-old Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin, remains unaccounted for following an encounter with the same animal.
“During ongoing search operations, another individual… was reported missing after an encounter with the same animal. Intensive efforts are currently underway to locate him,” the statement added.
The command reassured residents that the situation is under control, urging caution while response efforts continue.
“The Command wishes to reassure residents of Innayin and adjoining communities that the situation is being closely managed, and all necessary measures are being taken to prevent further harm,” it stated, warning the public to avoid the affected area and promptly report any sightings.
The Command further stressed the need to handle the incident in line with conservation protocols, noting that relevant agencies, including the National Park Service Nigeria, have been contacted for expert guidance.
Also, the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, appealed for calm among residents, assuring that security operatives are fully deployed.
“We understand the concerns this incident has generated within the community. Our officers are fully on ground working with relevant stakeholders to secure the area and prevent further casualties,” he said.
He added: “We appeal to residents to remain calm, avoid the affected locations, and continue to cooperate with the police and other authorities as we work to bring the situation under control in a safe and professional manner.”
The police also appreciated the cooperation of community members and called for sustained collaboration with security agencies to ensure public safety as efforts to contain the situation continue.
