The Ekwulobia community in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State has suspended its 2026 New Yam festival following the reported abduction of a prominent businessman, Chief Joseph Ezeokafor.
The annual festival, originally scheduled for September 4, was put on hold after Ezeokafor, chief executive of Jezco Oil and an indigene of the town, was allegedly kidnapped on Tuesday evening.
Sources said the businessman was abducted shortly after leaving his residence without security escorts.
The incident has sparked tension and concern across the community, prompting traditional authorities to cancel the celebration.
The traditional ruler of Ekwulobia, Igwe Emmanuel Chukwukadibia Onyeneke, confirmed the decision, stating that the community could not proceed with festivities while one of its sons remains in captivity.
Community members say the New Yam festival, a major cultural event held annually on a fixed date, will now be rescheduled pending further developments.
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