Chief Sir Joseph Ebere Ezeokafor, chairman of Jezco Group of Companies, popularly known as Jezco, has regained his freedom after spending several days in the hands of his abductors.
Ezeokafor, father of Lagos-based popular social media personality Jowizaza, was kidnapped in the early hours of Tuesday while on his way to a prayer ground in Awka, Anambra State.
His abductors reportedly contacted the family and initially demanded a ransom of N700 million before allegedly increasing their demand to N1.5 billion.
Ezeokafor was eventually released near the boundary between Anambra and Enugu states, around Ebenebe, close to Awka. A family member reportedly picked him up late at night.
It was not immediately clear whether any ransom was paid or what led to his release.
His freedom has brought relief to his family, friends, business associates and well-wishers, following widespread concern over his abduction.
Ezeokafor is the founder of Jezco Oil and Lubricants, which he established in 1980 before expanding the business into other areas of manufacturing and commerce.