The kidnappers of the Chairman of Jezco Group, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, have reportedly increased their ransom demand for his release from an initial ₦700 million to ₦1.5 billion.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ELLAN.png")
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Summer-IDRI-Masterclass.jpg")
A source familiar with the development, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the abductors had established contact with members of Ezeokafor’s family following his kidnapping and initially demanded ₦700 million as ransom.
According to the source, the family reportedly accepted the initial figure as part of efforts to secure the release of the septuagenarian businessman.
The kidnappers were, however, said to have subsequently increased the demand to ₦1.5 billion.
The source said the family remained willing to continue negotiations in the hope of securing Ezeokafor’s release, but the abductors reportedly stopped further communication after raising the ransom demand.
Efforts by the family to reopen negotiations with the kidnappers have so far not yielded results, leaving relatives increasingly concerned about his safety and the circumstances of his continued captivity.
The development comes about one week after Ezeokafor was abducted, with both the Anambra State Government and the State Police Command yet to make any public statement on the incident.
As of the time of the report, the Anambra State Police Command had not officially confirmed the abduction or disclosed whether security operations were underway to locate and rescue the businessman.
Ezeokafor was reportedly kidnapped at about 2 a.m. on Tuesday after leaving his residence for a prayer ground where he was said to be heading for his annual spiritual rejuvenation.
He was said to have stepped out without his security details, a circumstance that reportedly made it easier for the abductors to gain access to him.
The exact circumstances surrounding the kidnapping, including the location where he was intercepted and the number of persons involved, remain unclear.
The reported increase in the ransom demand from ₦700 million to ₦1.5 billion has further complicated efforts by the family to secure his release, especially as communication with the abductors is said to have stalled.
Ezeokafor is a prominent businessman and Chairman of Jezco Group, and news of his abduction has generated concern among associates, family members and members of the public.
His family is reportedly continuing efforts to establish contact with the kidnappers while awaiting developments from security agencies regarding his whereabouts and possible rescue.
“Order Justice Omolaye-Ajileye’s Electronic Evidence Books Now” — Essential Guides On Evidence Act, Case Law And Digital Proof
The book also examines Nigeria's legal ecosystem, focusing on the LPELR and NBA AI Guidelines. As a bonus, every purchase comes with a FREE eBook titled: How to Use the AI Features in LegalPedia and LawPavilion.
Ohio Books Ltd praises the publication, stating:
"....this is the only Nigerian book I know of on the topic."
How to Order:
📞 Call, Text, or WhatsApp: 08034917063 | 07055285878
📧 Email: benadigwe1@gmail.com
🌎 Website: www.benadigwe.com
Ebook Version: Access it directly online at https://selar.com/prv626
Authored by Ben Ijeoma Adigwe Esq., ACIarb (UK), LL.M, Dip. in Artificial Intelligence, Director at the Delta State Ministry of Justice, Asaba, Nigeria.
______________________________________________________________________
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
