Kidnappers Free Anambra Billionaire Businessman, Reverend Sister after N1.5bn Ransom Demand
David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka A billionaire businessman and Chairman of Jezco Group, Chief Joseph Ezeokafor, who was kidnapped alongside a reverend sister by yet-to-be-identified gunmen at Ifite-Awka, Awka South Local Government
A billionaire businessman, Chief Joseph Ezeokafor, and a reverend sister were kidnapped by unidentified gunmen in Ifite-Awka, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State. The businessman, who is the father of popular social media personality Jowi Zaza, was abducted while on his way to a prayer ground. The abductors initially demanded a ransom of N700 million, but allegedly increased it to N1.5 billion.
Chief Ezeokafor and the reverend sister were released in the early hours of the following day after spending four days in captivity. Although the Anambra State Police Command confirmed their release, it remains unclear if the ransom was paid. The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the kidnapping and release, and taking steps to identify the perpetrators.
A close source within the family suggested that the kidnapping occurred around the Ebenebe area, which has become notorious for kidnappings, and that the family's reputation was a factor in the ransom demand.
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