The police command in Oyo state has appealed for calm and called on residents of Innayin community to remain vigilant as a rampaging elephant attacks locals.
A statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, said the invasion occurred at about 3:30 p.m. on Thursday.
Mr Olayinka said a joint security team, including police operatives, local vigilantes and hunters, were mobilised to the affected community to ensure public safety.
“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,” the statement said.
The police spokesman said a 45-year-old man, Ibrahim Tijani, was fatally wounded by the elephant. A local, Muhammadu Bingin, was reported missing after the elephant attack.
“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. His remains have been evacuated to the General Hospital, Iwere-Ile, for necessary medical examination and preservation.
“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,” Mr Olayinka said.
Police commissioner Abimbola Olugbenga said the command has put necessary measures in place to prevent further harm and to closely monitor the situation.
“We understand the concerns this incident has generated within the community. Our officers are fully on the ground working with relevant stakeholders to secure the area and prevent further casualties,” Mr Olugbenga said. “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 command disclosed that it had begun engaging relevant authorities, including the National Park Service Nigeria, to provide expert guidance on safely managing the situation in line with wildlife conservation laws.
