By Mary Izuaka

 

A 45-year-old man has died, and a 50-year-old remains missing after a wild elephant invaded Innayin Community in Oyo State, the Oyo State Police Command said.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said the incident occurred at about 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, prompting a distress call that drew police operatives, local vigilantes, and hunters 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,” the police said.

Ir said intensive efforts are currently underway to locate him.

The Command reassured residents of Innayin and adjoining communities that the situation is being closely managed, noting that 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.”

The police said relevant authorities, including the National Park Service Nigeria, are being engaged to provide expert guidance on safely managing the situation.

READ ALSO: Police arrest suspected armed robber in Oyo

The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, called for calm and said officers are on ground with relevant stakeholders to secure the area.

“We understand the concerns this incident has generated within the community. Our officers are fully on the 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 Command thanked community members for their cooperation and asked for continued collaboration with security agencies.