The kidnappers of Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, chairman of Jezco Group, have raised their ransom demand from N700 million to N1.5 billion, a week after abducting the Anambra businessman.
People Gazette reports that a source close to the family, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the kidnappers initially demanded N700 million — a figure the family reportedly agreed to pay to secure his release.
However, the abductors subsequently doubled their demand to N1.5 billion, according to the source.
The family has remained willing to negotiate, but the kidnappers have since gone silent, cutting off further engagement. Efforts by the family to reopen communication have reportedly failed to yield results, leaving them in a difficult position.
A week after the septuagenarian businessman’s abduction, both the police and Anambra State Government authorities have remained silent on the incident. The Anambra State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement.
Ezeokafor was kidnapped around 2am on Tuesday after leaving his home for a prayer ground, where he observes an annual spiritual rejuvenation. He had reportedly left his security details behind when he stepped out, giving the kidnappers unhindered access to him.
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