Nigerian billionaire businessman and founder of Jezco Oil and Jezco Group, Sir Joseph Eze Okafor, has reportedly been abducted by gunmen in Awka, Anambra State.
Okafor, who is also the father of Instagram celebrity Jowizaza, was reportedly kidnapped last week while praying at a mountain in the Ifite area of Awka.
According to reports, the businessman had gone to the mountain alone to spend the night in prayer and seek divine intervention, a monthly spiritual routine he had reportedly maintained over the years.
However, unlike previous visits, Okafor was said to have gone without his security personnel and police escorts.
It was during the prayer session that an unidentified gunman reportedly abducted him and took him to an undisclosed location.
The development has reportedly caused anxiety and confusion in Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, where Okafor hails from.
Residents of the community have expressed concern over the fate of the businessman, who is regarded as one of the community’s most prominent and influential sons.
The reported abduction has also reportedly affected preparations for the community’s annual New Yam Festival.
According to the statement, the community has postponed the festival in solidarity with the Okafor family, saying it would be inappropriate to celebrate while the family is dealing with the uncertainty surrounding his reported abduction.
The decision is said to be unprecedented, as the community has reportedly never postponed the annual festival before.
Okafor’s reported abduction comes amid persistent concerns over insecurity and kidnapping in parts of Anambra State and the wider South-East.
However, details surrounding the incident, including the identity of the alleged abductors, their demands and the current whereabouts of the businessman, remain unclear.
The family and relevant security authorities are yet to publicly provide comprehensive details on the reported incident.
