By Praise Chinecherem

After over 10 days in captivity, the nightmare is over for Anambra billionaire Chief Sir Joseph Ebere Ezeokafor and a Catholic Rev. Sister. Both victims have regained their freedom, but police are still searching for the armed men behind their abduction.

***

Chief Sir Joseph Ebere Ezeokafor, chairman of Jezco Group of Companies and father of popular social media personality Jowi Zaza, has regained his freedom after spending several days in the custody of his abductors.

The septuagenarian was released late Friday night alongside a Rev. Sister who was also abducted by armed men at Ifite-Awka, Anambra State.

The Anambra State Police Command confirmed their release on Saturday, August 15, 2026, but did not disclose whether any ransom was paid.

Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said both victims had “safely returned” and that security agencies were working to establish the circumstances surrounding their release.

“Anambra State Police Command confirms that, today, 15th August 2026, Chief J. J. Ezeokafor and a Rev. Sister, who were earlier abducted by armed criminals at Ifite-Awka, have been released and have safely returned,” Ikenga said.

He added that the Command was taking steps to obtain information that could help investigators identify and apprehend those responsible.

“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama psc mnips, while commending the safe return of the victims, further directs intensified intelligence-led operations and manhunt for those responsible for the abduction,” Ikenga said.

The police said the operation involves the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Agunechemba Security Operatives and other relevant security agencies.

The Command also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could aid the investigation.

How the Abduction Happened

Ezeokafor was reportedly abducted in the early hours of Tuesday while on his way to a prayer ground in Awka.

For days, uncertainty surrounded his whereabouts as security agencies and the family worked to secure his safe return.

The breakthrough came late Friday when the businessman was released. A family member subsequently picked him up near the Anambra-Enugu boundary around Ebenebe, close to Awka.

A close family member, who confirmed the development, described the family’s reaction as “understandably ecstatic” following his return.

The circumstances surrounding the release remain unclear, including whether a ransom was paid. Police said they were still gathering information as investigations continued.

The latest development brings relief to the families of the two victims, while security agencies intensify efforts to track down the abductors.