Abductors release Anambra entrepreneur, Catholic nun

Chief Joseph Ezeokafor, a prominent businessman and Chairman of Jezco Group, has been freed after being kidnapped by unknown gunmen in Ifite-Awka, Awka South LGA of Anambra State, and has safely returned home.

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His release came after spending several days in captivity, with the reverend sister who was abducted alongside him also being set free, as confirmed by the Anambra State Police Command on Saturday.

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The command's spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, revealed that the police are taking necessary steps to uncover the circumstances surrounding their abduction and release, and to gather relevant information to aid in the ongoing investigation and identification of the perpetrators.

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Ikenga stated that the command is focused on establishing the circumstances surrounding the release of Chief J.J. Ezeokafor and the reverend sister, and on obtaining information to assist in the investigation and apprehension of those responsible.

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The Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, has commended the safe return of the victims and directed an intensification of intelligence-led operations and a manhunt for those responsible for the abduction, involving the police and other relevant security agencies.

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The police are urging the public to remain vigilant and provide credible and timely information to assist in apprehending the perpetrators, according to Ikenga.

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Although Ikenga did not disclose whether a ransom was paid, he noted that the police are gathering relevant information to aid in the ongoing investigation and identification of the perpetrators.

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A close family source revealed that Chief Ezeokafor and the reverend sister were released in the Ebenebe area, near the Anambra-Enugu state border, which has been identified as a new kidnapping hub in the region.

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The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the kidnappers initially demanded ₦700 million in ransom, but later increased their demand to ₦1.5 billion after sensing that the family might be willing to pay more.

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The family ultimately paid the ₦1.5 billion ransom, according to the source, with the kidnappers ceasing further engagement with the family until the release of the victims on Saturday.

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The development has reportedly caused tension within the family, with some siblings trading blame over the circumstances that led to their father's kidnap.

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The revelation has also sparked concern among the businessman's associates and members of the community, with a police source having earlier confirmed that the family had paid the ₦1.5 billion ransom and that the victim was expected to be released soon.