Chief Sir Joseph Ebere Ezeokafor, chairman of Jezco Group of Companies, and a Rev Sister who were abducted in Anambra State have regained their freedom.
According to reports, Ezeokafor was released on Friday night and later picked up by a family member around Ebenebe, near the boundary between Anambra and Enugu states.
The Anambra State Police Command also confirmed that the two victims had been released safely.
Ezeokafor, a septuagenarian businessman and father of popular social media personality Jowi Zaza, was reportedly abducted by armed men in the Ifite-Awka area of Awka in the early hours of Tuesday.
The incident had generated concern among residents and business communities in the state, particularly because of Ezeokafor’s profile as a prominent industrialist.
Reports surrounding the abduction indicated that the kidnappers had made contact with the businessman’s family and demanded a ransom. The demand was reportedly increased from N700 million to N1.5 billion.
It remains unclear whether any ransom was paid before the victims were released.
A source familiar with the development said Ezeokafor was collected by a family member around Ebenebe after his release.
The source also raised concerns about the security situation around the area, alleging that it had been used in connection with other kidnapping incidents. The claim could not be independently verified.
In its reaction, the police said it was working to establish the circumstances surrounding the victims’ release and gather intelligence that could help identify those behind the abduction.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, directed security operatives to intensify intelligence-led operations and commence a manhunt for the perpetrators.
The police said the operation involves the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services, military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Agunechemba security operatives and other relevant agencies.
The Command also appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist investigators.
Ezeokafor founded Jezco Oil and Lubricants in 1980 and subsequently expanded his business interests into manufacturing and other sectors. He is regarded as one of the established businessmen in Anambra State.
His son, Jowi Zaza, has a strong presence on social media and is known for his business and lifestyle-related content.
Details of where Ezeokafor and the Rev Sister were held, the identity of their abductors and the precise circumstances of their release were not immediately known.
The police investigation is expected to provide further information on the incident and efforts to apprehend those responsible.
