The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the release of prominent businessman and Chairman of Jezco Group, Chief Joseph Ezeokafor, and a reverend sister, 10 days after they were abducted by armed men in the Ifite-Awka area of the state.
The two victims were reportedly picked up by a family member near the Anambra-Enugu boundary after regaining their freedom and have since returned safely.
Ezeokafor, a prominent businessman in Anambra State and Managing Director of JEZCO Oil, was reportedly abducted while praying in a church in the Ifite-Awka area.
His abduction sparked concern among his family, business associates and residents, particularly because of his prominence in the state’s business community.
The incident also drew attention after reports emerged that the kidnappers initially demanded N700 million in ransom, before allegedly raising their demand to N1.5 billion.
It remains unclear whether any ransom was paid to secure the victims’ release or how they regained their freedom.
Confirming the development on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the command had received confirmation that Ezeokafor and the reverend sister were safe.
“The Anambra State Police Command confirms that, today, 15th August 2026, Chief J. J. Ezeokafor and a Rev. Sister, who were earlier abducted by armed criminals at Ifite-Awka, have been released and have safely returned,” Ikenga said.
The police said investigations were continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding their release and gather intelligence that could lead to the identification and arrest of the perpetrators.
The Commissioner of Police, Nnanna Ama, has consequently ordered intensified intelligence-led operations and a manhunt for those responsible for the abduction.
The operation involves the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services, military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Agunechemba security operatives and other relevant security agencies.
The command urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could assist investigators in tracking down the kidnappers.
The latest incident highlights the continuing security challenges confronting Anambra and other parts of the South-East, where kidnapping for ransom has remained a major concern for residents, businesses and security agencies.
For Ezeokafor, whose business interests have made him a prominent figure in Anambra’s commercial community, the abduction had raised particular concern over the growing risks faced by high-profile business owners and other affluent residents.
With both victims now safely reunited with their families, attention has shifted to the police investigation and the effort to identify and apprehend those behind the operation.
