An attack on Innayin Community in Oyo State has led to the death of one person with another declared missing.
The incident, it was learnt occurred around 3:30 pm on Thursday when the elephant was said to have suddenly appeared in the community.
State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement.
Olayinka said operatives, in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, responded promptly after receiving a distress call from the community.
The statement read, “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 PPRO 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 rampaging elephant.
“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.
Police 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.
State Commissioner of Police, 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 expressed appreciation for the cooperation of residents, urging them to continue to collaborate with security agencies.
