JEZCO Is Home: Kidnapped Anambra Business Mogul Joseph Ezeokafor Regains Freedom

Chief Joseph Ebere Ezeokafor, Chairman of Jezco Group of Companies, has regained his freedom after spending several days in captivity following his abduction in Anambra State.

Ezeokafor, a prominent businessman and father of social media personality Joseph Ezeokafor Jr., popularly known as Jowizaza, was abducted by gunmen in the Ifite-Awka area of Awka South Local Government Area.

The Anambra State Police Command confirmed on Saturday that Ezeokafor and a reverend sister who was also abducted had been released and safely returned.

Police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the command was working to establish the circumstances surrounding their abduction and release, while efforts were ongoing to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

The victims were reportedly released in the early hours of Saturday after spending several days in captivity.

Reports had earlier indicated that the kidnappers initially demanded N700 million from Ezeokafor’s family before allegedly increasing the ransom to N1.5 billion. However, the police have not officially confirmed whether any ransom was paid.

Ezeokafor is the founder and Chairman of Jezco Oil and Lubricants, a business he established in 1980 and subsequently expanded into a wider manufacturing and commercial enterprise.

Following the development, the state Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, directed intensified intelligence-led operations and a manhunt for those responsible for the abduction.

The police also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could assist security agencies in tracking down the suspects.

The news of Ezeokafor’s release has brought relief to his family, business associates and members of the Anambra community, who had expressed concern over his prolonged captivity.

“JEZCO Is Home” has since emerged as a celebratory message among those welcoming the businessman back to freedom.