The abductors of Anambra billionaire businessman and Chairman of Jezco Group, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, have reportedly announced a ransom demand of N1.5 billion for his release.

According to a report by Arise TV, the kidnappers initially demanded N700 million before allegedly increasing the amount to N1.5 billion.

Ezeokafor, a septuagenarian businessman, was reportedly abducted in the early hours of Tuesday while travelling to a prayer ground for his annual spiritual rejuvenation.

The reported abduction has sparked concern among members of his family, business associates and residents of the community, with efforts to secure his release reportedly complicated by a breakdown in communication.

Abductors increase ransom demand

A source close to the family, who spoke on condition of anonymity, reportedly told Arise TV that the kidnappers initially demanded N700 million for Ezeokafor’s release.

The family was reportedly prepared to negotiate with the abductors in a bid to secure the businessman’s freedom.

However, the kidnappers subsequently increased their demand to N1.5 billion, raising the financial burden on the family.

The source did not disclose whether any payment had been made or whether the family had agreed to the revised ransom demand.

Communication with family breaks down

The source further disclosed that communication between the abductors and Ezeokafor’s family had broken down.

Attempts to re-establish contact with the kidnappers have reportedly been unsuccessful despite the family’s willingness to continue negotiations.

The development has reportedly heightened anxiety among the businessman’s relatives, who are seeking information about his whereabouts and condition.

The family is said to remain focused on securing his safe release.

Businessman reportedly left home without security

Ezeokafor was reportedly abducted after leaving his home at about 2am without his security details.

He was said to have been travelling to a prayer ground for his annual spiritual rejuvenation when the incident occurred.

The circumstances surrounding the reported abduction, including how the kidnappers intercepted the businessman, remain unclear.

His reported movement without security personnel has also emerged as a significant detail in accounts surrounding the incident.

Police, government yet to comment

The Anambra State Police Command and the state government have reportedly not publicly commented on the businessman’s alleged abduction or the reported ransom demand.

There has also been no official confirmation of the identity of the abductors or the current whereabouts of Ezeokafor.

The lack of an official statement has left several details surrounding the incident unverified.

It remains unclear whether security agencies have launched a rescue operation or made any arrests in connection with the reported abduction.

Family seeks safe return

The reported development has caused concern among Ezeokafor’s relatives, business associates and members of his community.

The family is reportedly continuing efforts to establish contact with the abductors and explore ways of securing his release.

However, the reported increase in the ransom demand and the breakdown in communication have complicated the situation.

For now, the businessman’s whereabouts and condition remain unclear as his family and relevant authorities are expected to continue efforts to secure his safe return.