One Dead, Another Missing as Wild Elephant Invades Oyo Community

Tragedy struck the Innayin community in Oyo State on Thursday afternoon when a wild elephant invaded the area, leaving one person dead and another missing.

The Oyo State Police Command confirmed that the incident occurred around 3:30 pm on April 23, 2026, throwing residents into panic following the sudden appearance of the animal within the community.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday. DSP Ayanlade Olayinka said security operatives responded swiftly 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,” the statement read.

According to the police, operatives working alongside local vigilantes and hunters mobilised to the scene immediately. DSP Ayanlade Olayinka said upon arrival, the lifeless body of one Ibrahim Tijani, aged 45, was discovered in a nearby bush with injuries consistent with an animal 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,” the police spokesperson added.

During ongoing search operations, another resident identified as Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin, aged 50, was reported missing after an encounter with the same animal. DSP Ayanlade Olayinka stated that intensive efforts are currently underway to locate him.

The command assured residents of Innayin and adjoining communities that the situation is being closely managed and all necessary measures are being taken to prevent further harm. DSP Ayanlade Olayinka urged members of the public to avoid the affected area and report any sighting of the animal to security agencies promptly.

“While efforts are ongoing to secure the community, the command emphasizes 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,” the statement added.

The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Abimbola Olugbenga, reassured residents of their safety. DSP Ayanlade Olayinka quoted the police commissioner as saying, “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,” Olugbenga said.

The police command appreciated the cooperation of residents and urged continued collaboration with security agencies as efforts intensify to neutralize the threat and locate the missing victim.