Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, Father of Jowizaza, Reportedly Abducted in Anambra
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By Rita Onuoha
Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, founder of Jezco Oil and chairman of Jezco Group, has reportedly been abducted by unidentified gunmen in Awka, Anambra State, throwing his family, business associates and members of his Ekwulobia community into anxiety.
Ezeokafor, who is also the father of popular Nigerian businessman and socialite Joseph Ezeokafor Jr., popularly known as Jowizaza, was reportedly taken away while he was praying alone at a mountain location in Awka.
According to reports circulating since Sunday, August 9, 2026, the businessman allegedly visited the location for personal prayers and reflection without his usual security entourage when the assailants reportedly struck.
Lawyer Chukwudi Iwuchukwu was among those who disclosed the incident, saying Ezeokafor was allegedly kidnapped sometime last week from a bush or mountain area in Awka by unknown gunmen.
The report has generated widespread concern in Anambra, particularly in Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area, where Ezeokafor is regarded as a prominent businessman and community figure.
The development has also reportedly affected preparations for the community's annual New Yam Festival. Reports indicate that the Ekwulobia community postponed the celebration following the reported abduction, as residents and community leaders expressed concern over the whereabouts and safety of the businessman.
The decision to suspend or postpone the cultural celebration underscores the seriousness with which the community is treating the incident, with attention now focused on efforts to secure Ezeokafor's safe return.
Ezeokafor is a prominent figure in Nigeria's business community. He founded Jezco Oil and Lubricants, a company that has grown into a major business enterprise with interests associated with petroleum products, lubricants and manufacturing. His business career has also been linked to extensive philanthropic activities and community development.
His son, Jowizaza, is also a well-known businessman and socialite who has maintained a prominent presence in Nigeria's social and business circles. Reports about his father's alleged abduction have consequently attracted considerable attention online and within business communities.
The reported incident comes amid continuing concerns over kidnapping and other security challenges in parts of the South-East, where wealthy individuals and business owners have increasingly become targets of criminal attacks.
However, details surrounding the alleged abduction remain limited, including the exact circumstances of the incident, the identity of the attackers and whether any ransom demand has been made.
As of the time of publishing this report, there has been no official response from the alleged abductors concerning Sir Joseph Ezeokafor's whereabouts or condition. There has also been no publicly available official confirmation from the Anambra State Police Command establishing his current location.
Family members, associates and community stakeholders are therefore awaiting further information as security agencies are expected to intensify efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported disappearance and secure his safe release.
Inside Agwa News will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as credible information becomes available.
