Residents of Ilotombi community in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State were treated to a rare wildlife sighting after an adult African forest elephant emerged near the village following heavy rainfall.
The elephant was spotted on July 23, with videos shared on social media showing residents following the animal from a safe distance while recording the unusual encounter on their phones. Community members watched as the elephant calmly moved through the area before returning toward the forest, with no reports of injuries or property damage.
Conservationists believe the recent heavy rains may have contributed to the elephant’s movement closer to human settlements. Flooded forest paths and changing food availability can temporarily alter the movement patterns of wildlife, occasionally bringing animals into nearby communities.
The sighting is not an isolated incident. It is believed to be the second or third elephant sighting in Ilotombi this year and one of more than eight recorded sightings across Andoni LGA, highlighting the continued presence of the critically endangered species in the region. Conservation groups estimate that fewer than 15 African forest elephants remain within the Andoni Elephant Sanctuary, where decades of habitat loss and poaching have drastically reduced their population.
Despite the close encounter, residents avoided provoking the animal, and local leaders praised the peaceful response. Community stakeholders have continued urging people to respect the sanctuary and allow the elephants to move freely without harassment, emphasizing that coexistence is essential for the species’ survival.
The African forest elephant is listed as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with populations across Central and West Africa declining sharply due to illegal hunting and shrinking forest habitats.
For conservationists, the latest sighting offers a reminder that Andoni remains one of Nigeria’s last refuges for the elusive species. While the encounter excited residents, experts say protecting the remaining elephants will require stronger habitat conservation, anti-poaching measures and continued cooperation between local communities and environmental authorities.
