National News – Panic gripped Innayin community in Oyo State on Thursday after a wild elephant invaded the area, killing one resident and leaving another missing in a rare but deadly human-wildlife encounter.

The incident, which occurred around 3:30 pm, involved a 45-year-old man, Ibrahim Tijani, who was found dead in a nearby bush with injuries consistent with an animal attack.

Another resident, 50-year-old Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin, remains unaccounted for following his encounter with the animal. Authorities say search efforts are ongoing.

According to the Oyo State Police Command, operatives responded swiftly after receiving a distress call.

Police spokesperson Ayanlade Olayinka confirmed that officers, alongside local hunters and vigilantes, were deployed to contain the situation and prevent further casualties.

The victim’s remains have been moved to a hospital for examination.

Residents described the invasion as shocking and unprecedented, raising concerns about safety in rural communities bordering forest reserves.

Some locals blamed increasing encroachment on wildlife habitats, while others called for stronger government action to prevent future incidents.

Security presence has since been reinforced, with authorities urging calm and advising residents to avoid affected areas.

The police also noted that experts from the National Park Service Nigeria are being consulted to ensure the animal is handled in line with conservation laws.

The Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Olugbenga, reassured residents that efforts are underway to secure the community, emphasizing collaboration between security agencies and locals.

This incident highlights a growing pattern of human-wildlife conflict in parts of Nigeria, often driven by deforestation and expanding settlements.

Without proactive measures—such as wildlife monitoring, community education, and habitat protection—experts warn that such tragedies may become more frequent.