- Chief Joseph Ebere Ezeokafor, a billionaire businessman, has been released from kidnappers’ custody.
- He is the founder and chairman of Jezco Group of Companies.
- Ezeokafor was abducted on August 4, 2026, while heading to a prayer ground in Awka, Anambra State.
Chief Joseph Ebere Ezeokafor, a billionaire businessman and father of Nigerian socialite Jowizaza, has regained his freedom after spending several days in the custody of kidnappers.
Ezeokafor, who is the founder and chairman of Jezco Group of Companies, was reportedly abducted on August 4, 2026, while on his way to a prayer ground in Awka, Anambra State.
His disappearance raised concerns among his family, associates and members of the public as efforts were reportedly intensified to secure his safe return.
Reports surrounding the incident indicated that the kidnappers initially demanded N700 million as ransom from the family. The amount was later said to have been increased to N1.5 billion during negotiations.
The alleged hike in the ransom demand further heightened concerns over the businessman’s safety as negotiations continued between the abductors and his family.
However, it is yet to be established whether any ransom was eventually paid to secure his release.
His freedom was reportedly confirmed days after the abduction, bringing relief to his relatives, friends, business associates and supporters.
At the time of filing this report, details surrounding his release remained unclear. Authorities have not publicly stated where Ezeokafor was found or whether security agencies were directly involved in securing his freedom.
It is also unclear whether the businessman was released following negotiations with the kidnappers or through an operation by security personnel.
Ezeokafor is the founder of Jezco Oil and Lubricants, a company he established in 1980. Over the years, he expanded his business interests into the wider Jezco Group of Companies, with investments spanning manufacturing and other sectors.
He is also the father of popular businessman and social media personality, Jowizaza.
Following news of his release, social media users expressed relief and gratitude that the businessman had returned safely after days in captivity.
While many welcomed the development, others sought clarification on the circumstances surrounding his release, particularly reports concerning the alleged ransom. However, no official statement has confirmed whether any payment was made.
Ezeokafor’s safe return brings an end to the uncertainty that followed his reported abduction and marks a significant development in the high-profile kidnapping case.
