EFCC Recovers N1.23bn from Sujimoto for Enugu Smart Schools Project
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over N1,234,350,000 recovered from Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited to the Enugu State Government over the failed construction of 22 smart schools in the state.
The handover took place on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, following investigations into allegations of fraud and contract breach against the construction firm.
The EFCC said it acted on a petition dated February 11, 2025, which accused Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited of failing to execute the project despite receiving an advance payment of N2,289,186,190 from the Enugu State Government. The petition identified Dr. Olasijibomi Ogundele, Group Managing Director of the company, as jointly liable for the refund, citing non-performance after the project completion deadline of January 2, 2025.
Following investigations by operatives of the Special Task Fraud Section of the EFCC’s Enugu Zonal Directorate, the Commission recovered N1.23 billion and returned it to the state government.
Speaking during the handover, the Enugu Zonal Director of the EFCC, Commander CE Daniel Isei, representing EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, reaffirmed the Commission’s resolve to recover misappropriated public funds and ensure restitution where crimes are established. He warned contractors handling public funds to adhere strictly to the Procurement Act and operate with integrity.
He added that investigations into the matter are ongoing and that prosecution will follow if criminal liability is established, stressing that every unaccounted kobo belonging to Enugu State will be traced and recovered.
Receiving the funds on behalf of the Enugu State Government, Onyia commended the EFCC for its professionalism and focus, noting that despite public distractions, the Commission followed due process and recovered the funds.
He described the recovery as a strong example of intergovernmental collaboration, transparency, and accountability.
