Ekwulobia community in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State has suspended its 2026 New Yam Festival following the reported abduction of businessman Chief Joseph Ezeokafor.
The annual celebration was scheduled for September 4, but the community reportedly decided to call it off after Ezeokafor, owner of Jezco Group of Companies and father of social media personality Jowi Zaza, was allegedly kidnapped.
Ezeokafor was reportedly taken away on Tuesday evening after leaving his residence without his security personnel. His alleged abduction has caused concern across Ekwulobia, with community members turning their attention to efforts to secure his release.
A source in the community said the traditional ruler of Ekwulobia, His Royal Majesty Igwe Emmanuel Chukwukadibia Onyeneke, formally suspended the festival following the incident.
The source said the decision was taken because the community could not proceed with a major cultural celebration while one of its prominent sons remained in the hands of suspected kidnappers.
“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 source said.
“The Igwe said the community of Ekwulobia cannot celebrate while their son remains in the custody of the kidnappers,” the source added.
The suspension has cast a sombre mood over the community, where the New Yam Festival is an important annual cultural event. No new date for the celebration has been announced following the reported abduction.
