Elephants run amok in Oyo community, kill one, resident missing 

Ebun Emmanuel –April 24,2026

The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the death of one person, while another is still missing following an elephant invasion in Innayin community, Iwere-Ile area of Irepo Local Government Area of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said that the incident occurred on Thursday at around 3.30pm.

He added that an emergency response operation has been constituted by the  police, local vigilantes, and hunters following the incident.

The PPRO said the body of a 45-year-old man, identified as Ibrahim Tijani, was found in a nearby bush with injuries consistent with animal attack, adding that his remains have been evacuated to the general hospital in the town.

The police further said that while search is still ongoing, another resident, Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin, aged 50, has been discovered missing after reportedly encountering the same elephant.

The command said intensive search efforts are ongoing to locate him.

The police assured residents of Innayin and surrounding communities that the situation is being closely monitored and measures are in place to prevent further casualties.

While the members of the public have been advised to avoid the affected area and promptly report any sighting of the animals to security agencies, the command noted that relevant agencies, including the National Park Service of Nigeria, are being engaged to provide expert support in managing the situation in line with wildlife conservation regulations.

The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Abimbola Olugbenga, called for calm among residents.

He assured them that officers are working with relevant stakeholders to secure the animals and prevent further harm.