Billionaire businessman and owner of Jezco Group of Companies, Chief Joseph Ezeokafor is still in kidnappers custody.

This latest revelation is coming despite news of his release, which is being circulated on social media.

Public Relations Officer of Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga who reacted to enquiry by our correspondent said serious operation is currently ongoing to save the elder statesman.

Ezeokafor was kidnapped in Awka on Tuesday last week when he allegedly stepped out of his house without his security details to attend to his spiritual need, where he goes to offer prays.

Meanwhile, Ekwulobia community in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State has allegedly called off its New Yam festival celebration billed for September 4, 2026.

The reason for this shift was it was gathered was because of the kidnap of Ezeokafor, who is also father of social media celebrity, Jowi Zaza.

His kidnap has sent his community into mourning, causing the postponement of the new Yam festival, an annual festival which holds on a static date every year.

A source from the community said the traditional ruler of Ekwulobia where Ezeokafor hails from, His Royal Majesty, Igwe (Engr) Emmanuel Chukwukadibia Onyeneke, officially suspended the Ekwulobia New Yam Festival, saying there was no need to celebrate while their son remained in captivity.

“The celebration is originally scheduled for September 4th, but shifted due to the abduction of their esteemed son, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, CEO of Jezco Oil.

“The Igwe said the community of Ekwulobia cannot celebrate while their son remains in the custody of the kidnappers,” the source said. (THISDAY)

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