Tragedy struck in Ore, the headquarters of Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State, as Alhaji Ismail Awoyinka, a well-known businessman dealing in building materials, was brutally murdered. The assassination occurred on Saturday around 8:35 p.m. near his residence in the Idi Mango area, opposite the Caring Heart Mega School in Ore town.

Reports indicate that Alhaji Awoyinka was ambushed by suspected gunmen shortly after leaving the mosque, where he had participated in Taraweeh prayers, a voluntary prayer performed during Ramadan. According to family sources, the assailants, dressed in white attire, arrived on a motorcycle and shot Awoyinka at close range as he was about to enter his house.

"He was assassinated the moment he left the mosque after Taraweeh prayer, very close to his house, around 8:35 pm on Saturday," a family member recounted. "Immediately he left the mosque, he went home straight, but some persons dressed in white attire alighted from a motorcycle, and as he was about to enter his house, they ambushed him and shot him."

The news of Awoyinka's assassination sent shockwaves through the community, with many sympathizers gathering at his residence to mourn his untimely death and offer condolences to his family. Awoyinka was known for his kindness and generosity, particularly towards the less privileged.

Taiwo Adegoroye, Chairman of Odigbo Local Government Area, confirmed the incident and expressed profound shock and sadness over the brutal assassination. He condemned the killing and called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.

The Ondo State Police Command has launched an investigation into the assassination. ASP Funmilayo Odunlami, the command’s Public Relations Officer, confirmed the incident, stating, "Investigation is ongoing to unravel the assassination of the businessman."

The police are urging anyone with information related to the crime to come forward and assist with the investigation. The community is left reeling from the loss of a respected and beloved figure, and authorities are under pressure to bring the perpetrators to justice swiftly.