Kidnappers who abducted Anambra businessman Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor have reportedly increased their ransom demand from N700 million to N1.5 billion.
Joseph Ezeokafor, Chairman of Jezco Group and father of businessman Jowizaza, was reportedly abducted in the early hours of Tuesday, August 4, after leaving his home for a prayer ground in Awka.
It was gathered that the billionaire went out without his security escorts at the time of the incident.
A source close to the family said the kidnappers initially demanded N700 million for his release.
The family reportedly agreed to the amount as they tried to secure his safe return.
However, the abductors later increased the demand to N1.5 billion, according to the source.
The family has reportedly continued to seek a way to negotiate with the kidnappers and secure Ezeokafor’s release.
However, the abductors are said to have stopped communicating with them.
“The family has been willing to negotiate and do whatever is necessary to secure his release, but the kidnappers have suddenly stopped communicating,” the source said, according to the Guardian.
The source said the sudden loss of contact has made the situation more difficult for the family, as they are unable to confirm Ezeokafor’s condition or discuss his release with the kidnappers.
The lack of communication has also raised concerns over the businessman’s safety as efforts to establish contact continue.
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Tobias Sylvester
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