Oyo: Police urge calm as man’s death is linked to wild elephant

By Ayorinde Oluokun

Oyo Police Command has confirmed one person dead and another missing as a result of invasion of a wild elephant in Innayin community of the state.

The Command’s spokesperson Olayinka Ayanlade confirmed this in a statement issued on Thursday.

According to the statement, incident that occurred in the afternoon of Thursday, 23rd April 2026.

Ayanlade said police operatives, local vigilantes and hunters, swiftly mobilized to the scene upon receiving distress call on the activities of the wild elephant.

He added that on arrival at the scene, the lifeless body of a 45-year-old man identified as Ibrahim Tijani 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,” said the police spokesperson.

Ayanlade added that another individual, identified as Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin was reported missing after an encounter with the same animal.

He added that intensive efforts are currently underway to locate him.

The Oyo Police Command however 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.

The Command advised members of the public to avoid the affected area and report any sighting of the animal to security agencies promptly.

It added that efforts are ongoing to secure the community while emphasizing the importance of handling such incidents with due regard to wildlife conservation laws.

In line with this, the Command said relevant authorities, including the National Park Service Nigeria, are being engaged to provide expert guidance on safely managing the situation.

Ayanlade quoted Oyo Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga as reassuring the public of the Command’s commitment to safety while urging calm over the situation.

“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,” Ayanlade quoted the police commissioner as saying.