Kidnap of Jezco Oil Boss: More Tension as Abductors Demand Another Ransom, Cut Contacts with FamilyCity Pulse News

 

City Pulse NewsIn early August 2026, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor (also referred to as J.J. Ezeokafor), the 72-year-old Anambra businessman, oil magnate, and founder/chairman of Jezco Group (including Jezco Oil and Lubricants, established around 1980), was abducted by armed men in the Ifite-Awka area of Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State.Reports indicate the incident occurred in the early hours (around 2 a.m.) while he was heading to or at a Catholic retreat/prayer ground for his usual spiritual activities. He had left without his regular security detail, which left him vulnerable. A reverend sister was also taken in the same incident.Ezeokafor is widely known as the father of social media personality and businessman Joseph Ezeokafor Jr. (popularly called Jowizaza or Jowi Zaza). His hometown of Ekwulobia reportedly postponed its New Yam Festival amid the distress caused by the abduction.After contact was established, the abductors initially demanded ₦700 million. Family sources said relatives indicated readiness to meet that amount to secure his release. The demand was later raised to ₦1.5 billion. Despite the family’s reported willingness to continue negotiating, the kidnappers abruptly stopped communicating, heightening anxiety about his safety and condition.This episode reflects broader security challenges in parts of southeastern Nigeria, where high-profile abductions for ransom have become a recurring concern for residents, businesses, and communities. Local authorities and security agencies faced public pressure for updates and action during the period of silence.Update on resolution:
On 15 August 2026, the Anambra State Police Command confirmed that Chief Ezeokafor and the reverend sister had been released and safely returned. They were picked up by a family member near the Anambra-Enugu boundary (around the Ebenebe area). Police stated they were investigating the circumstances of the abduction and release, intensifying intelligence-led operations and a manhunt for the perpetrators involving multiple security agencies. Official statements did not confirm whether any ransom was paid.Some family members publicly expressed frustration, with reports of internal accusations linking the elevated ransom demand partly to perceptions created by social media displays of wealth. Details on exact payments or ongoing probes remain limited in public reports.