Kidnappers holding Anambra businessman and Chairman of Jezco Group, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, have reportedly increased their ransom demand from N700 million to N1.5 billion.
Ezeokafor, a septuagenarian and father of socialite Jowizaza, was reportedly abducted early Tuesday after leaving his residence for a prayer ground as part of his annual spiritual retreat. He was said to have gone without his security personnel.
A source close to the family said the kidnappers initially demanded N700 million, which the family was reportedly prepared to pay to secure his release.
However, the abductors later raised the demand to N1.5 billion and have since reportedly stopped communicating with the family.
“The family has been willing to negotiate and do whatever is necessary to secure his release, but the kidnappers have suddenly stopped communicating,” the source said.
The communication breakdown has reportedly left the family unable to establish contact with the abductors or confirm Ezeokafor’s condition, heightening concerns over his safety.
More than a week after the reported abduction, the Anambra State Police Command and the state government were yet to publicly comment on the incident, according to reports.
The reported increase in ransom has further complicated efforts by the family to secure the businessman’s safe release.
