Kidnappers holding the chairman of Jezco Group, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, have reportedly increased their ransom demand from ₦700 million to ₦1.5 billion, further escalating the crisis surrounding the abduction of the Anambra businessman.
Ezeokafor, a prominent industrialist and father of socialite Jowizaza, was reportedly abducted in the early hours of Tuesday while on his way to a prayer ground for his annual spiritual retreat. According to reports, he left his residence at about 2am without his security details when the kidnappers intercepted him.
Following the abduction, the kidnappers reportedly established contact with members of Ezeokafor’s family and initially demanded ₦700 million for his release. A source familiar with the situation said the family was willing to meet the demand as part of efforts to secure the businessman’s safe return.
However, the situation reportedly changed after the abductors raised their demand to ₦1.5 billion. The development has placed the family under significant pressure as they continue efforts to secure Ezeokafor’s release.
According to the reports, communication between the family and the kidnappers has since broken down, with attempts to re-establish contact reportedly unsuccessful. The silence has heightened concerns about the businessman’s wellbeing and made the situation increasingly difficult for his family.
The abduction has also attracted attention because of Ezeokafor’s prominence in Anambra’s business community. As chairman of Jezco Group, he is associated with a major business enterprise, making his kidnapping another high-profile case in the region’s persistent security challenges.
Despite the seriousness of the incident, the Anambra State Police Command has reportedly yet to issue an official statement on the abduction or provide details about ongoing efforts to locate the businessman.
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