Jowizaza’s Father Regains Freedom After 11 Days in Kidnappers’ Captivity

Chief Joseph Ebere Ezeokafor, the father of Nigerian socialite and businessman Jowizaza, has regained his freedom after spending about 11 days in the hands of kidnappers in Anambra State.

Ezeokafor, chairman of the Jezco Group of Companies, was abducted on August 4 while travelling to a prayer ground in Awka, according to reports published after his disappearance. His release was confirmed by the Anambra State Police Command on Saturday, August 15.

The businessman’s abduction had generated widespread concern in Anambra and online, particularly because of his profile as a prominent industrialist and his connection to Jowizaza.

Police Confirm Safe Return

The Anambra police confirmed that Ezeokafor had returned safely, bringing an end to days of uncertainty surrounding his whereabouts.

A separate cleric who was also abducted in the state was reportedly released alongside him, according to reports on the police confirmation.

However, authorities have not publicly provided detailed information about how the operation that secured their freedom was carried out.

It also remains unclear whether any ransom was paid.

Ransom Reports Had Increased Pressure

Before his release, reports citing sources close to the family said the kidnappers initially demanded ₦700 million before allegedly increasing the amount to ₦1.5 billion.

Reports published earlier in the week said communication between the abductors and the family had also become difficult, increasing concerns over Ezeokafor’s safety.

Those ransom figures remain reported claims, rather than figures officially confirmed by the police.

Relief Spreads Online

News of Ezeokafor’s release quickly spread across social media, with many Nigerians expressing relief after days of uncertainty.

Posts on X celebrated the development and shared updates about his return. One X post reported that Ezeokafor had been released after spending days in captivity, while another referenced the police confirmation of his safe return.

Some users, however, immediately turned their attention to the unanswered questions surrounding the kidnapping, particularly whether the reported ransom was eventually paid.

Other posts urged people to focus on the fact that the businessman had returned safely rather than speculate about details that had not been officially established.

Jowizaza himself has also reacted publicly following his father's release. He posted a message expressing gratitude, while fellow celebrities, including Obi Cubana and Cubana Chiefpriest, joined others in celebrating the development.

Family Controversy Also Drew Attention

The kidnapping had also triggered an internal family controversy after one of Ezeokafor’s daughters publicly criticised Jowizaza's lifestyle and alleged that his social media display of wealth may have contributed to the family's vulnerability.

Those allegations generated considerable discussion online, but they remain claims made by a family member and should not be treated as an established explanation for the kidnapping.

For now, the major development is that Ezeokafor is free and has returned safely.

The circumstances surrounding his release, the identity of the abductors and whether any ransom was paid remain unclear from the information publicly released by authorities.

Talk Ya True will continue to follow the investigation and any official updates from the Anambra State Police Command.