Elephant invades Oyo community, kills one

One person has been confirmed dead and another declared missing following an attack by a wild elephant in Innayin Community in Oyo State.

PUNCH Online learnt that the incident occurred around 3:30 pm on Thursday when residents reported the elephant’s sudden appearance.

The state police command’s spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement.

He said operatives, in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, responded promptly after receiving a distress call from the community.

“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform members of the public of an unfortunate incident that occurred on Thursday, 23rd April 2026, at about 1530HRS, involving the invasion of Innayin Community by a wild elephant.

“Upon receiving a distress call, police operatives, in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, swiftly mobilised to the scene. 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 statement read.

Olayinka added that the victim’s remains had been evacuated to the General Hospital, Iwere-Ile, for examination and preservation.

He said another resident, Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin, 50, was reported missing after an encounter with the animal.

“During ongoing search operations, another individual, identified as Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin ‘M’, aged 50 years, was reported missing after an encounter with the same animal. Intensive efforts are currently underway to locate him,” the statement added.

The command said it had deployed operatives alongside local hunters and vigilantes to manage the situation and prevent further casualties.

It urged residents of Innayin and neighbouring communities to remain calm, avoid the affected area, and promptly report any sighting of the animal.

“While efforts are ongoing to secure the community, the command emphasises the importance of handling such incidents with due regard to wildlife conservation laws.

“Relevant authorities, including the National Park Service Nigeria, are being engaged to provide expert guidance on safely managing the situation,” Olayinka said.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Abimbola Olugbenga, also reassured residents of their safety.

“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.

“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,” he said.

The police appreciated the cooperation of residents and urged continued collaboration with security agencies.