By Sunny A. David, Awka
The abductors of Anambra businessman and Chairman of Jezco Group, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, have reportedly increased their ransom demand from N700 million to N1.5 billion for his release.
Ezeokafor, a septuagenarian businessman, was reportedly abducted in the early hours of Tuesday while travelling to a prayer ground for his annual spiritual retreat.
According to a report by Arise TV, a source close to the family said the kidnappers initially demanded N700 million before later raising the ransom to N1.5 billion.
The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the family was prepared to negotiate with the abductors to secure Ezeokafor’s release.
However, communication between the kidnappers and the family was reportedly disrupted after the ransom was increased, with efforts to re-establish contact said to have been unsuccessful.
It remains unclear whether any payment has been made or whether the family has accepted the latest demand.
The reported abduction has heightened anxiety among Ezeokafor’s relatives, business associates and members of his community, who are seeking information about his whereabouts and condition.
Ezeokafor was reportedly travelling without his security details when he was abducted after leaving his residence at about 2am. The circumstances surrounding the incident and how the kidnappers intercepted him remain unclear.
As of the time of filing this report, there had been no official confirmation from the Anambra State Police Command or the state government regarding the reported abduction or the alleged ransom demand.
There was also no official confirmation of the identity of the abductors, Ezeokafor’s current location or whether security agencies had commenced a rescue operation or made any arrests.
The family is reportedly continuing efforts to establish contact with the kidnappers and secure the businessman’s safe release.
