EFCC Returns N1.2 Billion Recovered from Sujimoto to Enugu State Government
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially handed over the sum of N1,234,350,000 (One Billion, Two Hundred and Thirty-four Million, Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) to the Enugu State government. This significant recovery was made from Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited following a petition regarding the failed construction of 22 smart schools in the state.
Background of the Case
According to a statement released by the EFCC, the commission received a petition dated February 11, 2025, which detailed allegations of fraudulent activities by Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited. The petition identified Dr. Olasijibomi Ogundele as the Group Managing Director of the company and alleged that the state government had paid an advance fee of N2,289,186,190.00 (Two Billion, Two Hundred and Eighty-nine Million, One Hundred and Eighty-six Thousand, One Hundred and Ninety Naira) for the construction of 22 smart schools.
The contract's completion date was set for January 2, 2025, but the contractor failed to meet this deadline. The petitioner argued that this persistent non-performance was clear evidence of an intention to defraud the state government. The petition further stated that Ogundele was jointly liable for the refund of state funds due to an irremediable breach of contract terms and the diversion of project funds for personal or unrelated uses.
EFCC's Investigation and Recovery
In response to the petition, operatives from the EFCC's Special Task Fraud Section attached to the Enugu Zonal Directorate swiftly launched an investigation. Their efforts led to the recovery of N1,234,350,000 for the Enugu State government. The handing over ceremony took place on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, with Commander CE Daniel Isei, the Zonal Director of the Enugu Zonal Directorate, representing the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede.
During the event, Commander Isei reiterated the EFCC's commitment to recovering public funds and ensuring justice. He emphasized that the commission would deal with any acts contrary to the law and make restitution to victims where possible. "We are glad to announce to you that in doing our job, we have been able to recover some of those monies that were given to Sujimoto Construction," he stated.
Warnings and Future Actions
Olukoyede, through his representative, issued a stern warning to contractors entrusted with public funds, urging them to adhere to the Procurement Act and maintain integrity. He highlighted that the EFCC would thoroughly investigate every aspect of the petition against Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited to trace, track, and recover any unaccounted funds belonging to the Enugu State government.
"Where cases of criminality are established, the EFCC will take further steps of prosecution," Olukoyede warned. He stressed the importance of due diligence, professionalism, and transparency in all government contracts, noting that prevention is key when proper procedures are followed. "Every public fund that is given out must be adequately utilized or accounted for, else, the EFCC will move in and ensure that issues of economic and financial crimes are speedily dealt with," he added.
Enugu State Government's Response
On behalf of the Enugu State Government, the recipient of the draft, Onyia, praised the EFCC for its professionalism and dedication in recovering the funds. He acknowledged that despite distractions in the public space when the petition was submitted, the EFCC remained focused and conducted thorough investigations. "This, for us, is a remarkable testimony of intergovernmental collaboration and transparency," Onyia remarked, expressing gratitude for the commission's efforts in helping the state recover the significant sum.
This case underscores the ongoing efforts by anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria to combat financial crimes and protect public resources, serving as a cautionary tale for contractors and government officials alike.
