Tension has gripped residents of Itasin community in Ijebu East Local Government Area of Ogun State following the tragic killing of a 49-year-old man, Musa Yahaya Kala, by a herd of elephants on Monday.
The deceased, identified as a farmer and logger, was reportedly attacked while working in a forest reserve within the area, which has long been notorious for recurring human-wildlife conflicts.
According to local sources, Kala had ventured into the forest, allegedly for logging activities, when he encountered a group of elephants.
While his son, who accompanied him, narrowly escaped, Kala was fatally trampled by the animals.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage among residents who accused the government of negligence in safeguarding lives and enforcing conservation laws.
Confirming the tragedy, Hon. Owode Waliu Ifedolapo, the member representing Ijebu East Constituency in the Ogun State House of Assembly, expressed deep concern over the rising cases of human-elephant confrontations in the area.
“Eyewitnesses said the victim was lying under a tree when the elephants descended on him. It’s a heartbreaking incident,” the lawmaker said .
He urged the state government to act swiftly to prevent further loss of lives and protect both humans and wildlife.
A local conservation expert familiar with elephant activity in the region described the animals as “gentle giants,” adding that the attack was likely triggered by the use of a chainsaw in a protected zone.
“These elephants mostly feed on tree bark. They usually don’t attack unless provoked. The forest is their habitat, and logging is banned in that area,” the expert explained.
Ogun State Commissioner for Forestry, Hon. Taiwo Oludotun, also confirmed the death, describing the scene as a protected conservation area covering over 4,000 hectares.
“The elephants killed one person. We are currently at the site to assess the situation, sympathise with the family, and chart a way forward,” Oludotun said.
This latest incident has reignited debate over the enforcement of environmental laws and the safety of communities living close to conservation zones.
Residents are calling for increased patrols, public awareness, and stronger collaboration between government agencies and traditional leaders to forestall future tragedies.
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