Chief Joseph Ezeokafor, Chairman of Jezco Group of Companies, and a Reverend Sister have regained their freedom after being abducted in Ifite-Awka, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed their release on Saturday, saying the two victims had safely returned after spending days in captivity.
Police spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the command was taking steps to establish the circumstances surrounding their abduction and release while gathering information that could assist the investigation.
“The Anambra State Police Command confirms that Chief J.J. Ezeokafor and a Rev. Sister, who armed criminals earlier abducted at Ifite-Awka, have been released and have safely returned,” Ikenga said.
He added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, had directed intensified intelligence-led operations and a manhunt for those responsible.
The operation involves the police, Department of State Services, military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Agunechemba security operatives and other relevant agencies.
The command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could help security agencies apprehend the perpetrators.
Ezeokafor and the Reverend Sister were reportedly abducted in the Ifite-Awka area before being taken into captivity. Vanguard reported that they spent about 10 days with their abductors before regaining freedom.
The victims were subsequently picked up by a family member around Ebenebe, close to the Anambra-Enugu border.
The development followed reports that the kidnappers had contacted Ezeokafor’s family and demanded ransom. A family source cited by Punch alleged that the initial demand of ₦700 million was later increased to ₦1.5 billion.
The source further claimed that ₦1.5 billion was eventually paid for Ezeokafor’s release.
However, the alleged ransom payment has not been confirmed by the police. Authorities have also not disclosed whether any payment was made or whether security operations played a role in securing the victims’ release.
The reported use of the Ebenebe axis has also raised fresh concerns over kidnapping activities around the Anambra-Enugu border. A family source alleged that the area had become a location where abducted persons were being taken, although the claim remains unverified.
Ezeokafor is the founder of Jezco Oil and Lubricants and a prominent figure in Anambra’s business community. The company, established in 1980, grew into a major business interest spanning petroleum products and related ventures.
His son, Jowi Zaza, is also a well-known Nigerian businessman and social media personality.
With the victims now safe, security agencies are expected to intensify efforts to identify and arrest those behind the abduction. The police have urged residents to support the investigation with timely and credible information.
