One missing as wild elephant invades Oyo community, k!lls 45-year-old man

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

“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.

“Upon receiving a distress call, police operatives, in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, swiftly mobilized 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. 

“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.

“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. 

“Members of the public are strongly advised 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 Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, psc, mnips, reassures the public of the Command’s commitment to safety and urges calm.

“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,” the CP stated