ABDUCTORS INCREASE RANSOM DEMAND FOR JEZCO GROUP CHAIRMAN TO ₦1.5 BILLION, CUT COMMUNICATION WITH FAMILY

Concerns are heightening across Anambra State following reports that the abductors holding Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, Chairman of Jezco Group and father of popular businessman Joseph Ezeokafor Jr. (Jowizaza), have increased their ransom demand to ₦1.5 billion.

​The industrialist was abducted around 2:00 AM on Tuesday, August 4, after leaving his residence for a prayer ground as part of his annual spiritual retreat without his usual security details. Sources close to the family revealed that the kidnappers initially demanded ₦700 million for his release—a figure the family was actively preparing to negotiate to secure his safe return. However, the abductors unexpectedly raised the sum to ₦1.5 billion before suddenly halting all communications.

​The sudden breakdown in contact has left the family unable to establish the ongoing welfare or physical condition of the elder statesman. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies and state authorities have yet to issue an official public statement regarding ongoing rescue operations.

​"The family has been willing to negotiate and do whatever is necessary to secure his release, but the kidnappers have suddenly stopped communicating."

​Associates, business partners, and community leaders continue to call on security agencies to intensify search efforts to guarantee the safe release of the prominent businessman.