The disappearance of Anambra-based billionaire and estate mogul, Benjamin Ezemma, also known as “BigBen,” has taken a dramatic turn as his wife, Tochukwu Ezemma, publicly accused the state government and law enforcement agencies of neglect and inaction in the search for her husband. BigBen, the Managing Director of Dubai Estate in Awka, was reportedly abducted on November 12, 2024, and has been missing for over two months. Despite his significant contributions to the state’s economy through his investments in real estate and the fashion industry, the authorities seem to have paid little attention to the case, according to his wife.
A Silent Crisis in Anambra
In an emotional statement, Mrs. Ezemma expressed her frustration over the slow pace of the investigation, claiming that the state’s government had shown little concern for her husband’s disappearance. She alleged a deliberate “conspiracy of silence,” accusing the authorities of neglecting a case involving one of Anambra’s most influential entrepreneurs.
“My husband is not just any businessman; he is a great investor in Anambra. He has created jobs and improved the economy, yet the state government has shown no urgency in finding him,” Mrs. Ezemma said. Her voice, filled with both sadness and anger, rang out across social media as she publicly pleaded for justice.
“I can no longer keep quiet,” she continued. “It’s been over two months of endless suffering for me, my children, and the entire family. I ask again, where is my husband? What is the problem that cannot be talked over?” Mrs. Ezemma’s frustration is palpable. Her plea is not just for answers, but for the recognition of her husband’s importance to the state.
Anambra’s Business Community in Shock
Benjamin Ezemma, a highly respected figure in both the real estate and fashion sectors, is a prominent businessman whose enterprises have helped shape the economic landscape of Anambra. His company, Dubai Estate, is known for its large-scale real estate developments that have transformed parts of Awka, the state capital. Ezemma is also known for his philanthropic efforts, especially in youth development and employment generation.
His sudden disappearance has shocked many in the local business community. A source close to Ezemma’s company, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed concern over the silence surrounding the case: “Everyone is asking the same question – where is BigBen? He’s not just a businessman; he’s a pillar in the community. It’s very worrying that his case isn’t receiving the attention it deserves.”
Theories and Speculations
Although the authorities have kept the details of the investigation under wraps, some close to the Ezemma family have suggested that the abduction could be linked to his business dealings. However, Mrs. Ezemma strongly disagrees with this theory.
“They are calling it a ‘business gone wrong,'” she said, referring to speculations that the abduction was a result of a failed business transaction. “But this is not the case. My husband has helped so many people and is known for his integrity. No one can say that he was involved in anything shady.”
The family has also raised concerns about the lack of transparency from the government and security agencies. The Department of State Services (DSS) reportedly told the family that the case was in court but did not offer any further details. Mrs. Ezemma is demanding answers, particularly regarding the identity of those involved in her husband’s disappearance.
“The DSS told us to hire a lawyer to follow up in court. But who is the case against? Why is no one being arrested or charged?” she asked in her statement.
Government’s Response and Public Outcry
As of now, the state government has not made any public statements regarding the disappearance. Some political figures, however, have expressed concerns about the case’s handling. Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, a well-known Anambra politician, has called for more transparency and faster action from security agencies.
“It is shocking that such a high-profile case has not been resolved. Anambra is known for its rich history of business and entrepreneurship, and someone like BigBen deserves our full attention,” Ubah stated in a brief interview with News Express. “The authorities must do more to ensure that the family gets justice.”
At the same time, members of the public are taking to social media to demand action. The hashtag #BringBackBigBen has been trending on Twitter, with many users expressing outrage over the lack of progress in the case.
The Question of Justice
The tragedy of Benjamin Ezemma’s disappearance goes beyond just one family’s pain. It has raised questions about the safety of businesspeople in Anambra, a state that prides itself on its vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. If a well-known, influential businessman like BigBen can be abducted without the authorities offering clear answers, what does this say about the security situation in the state?
