RismadarVoice Reporters
January 22, 2026
In furtherance of its mandate to combat economic and financial crimes, ensure the recovery of misappropriated public funds, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over the sum of N1.234 billion recovered from Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited to the Enugu State Government.
The handover took place on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, following investigations into the company’s alleged failure to execute a contract for the construction of 22 smart schools awarded by the Enugu State Government.
According to the EFCC, the recovered sum of N1,234,350,000 million represents part of the funds paid to the company as advance payment for the project, which was allegedly abandoned despite the expiration of the contractual completion date.
The Commission disclosed that it received a petition dated February 11, 2025, alleging fraudulent conduct by Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited in relation to the school project.
The petition identified Dr. Olasijibomi Ogundele, Group Managing Director of the company, and claimed that a total of N2.289 billion had been paid as advance fees for the construction of the schools.
The petitioner alleged that the contractor failed to deliver on the project after the completion deadline of January 2, 2025, describing the persistent non-performance as evidence of intent to defraud the state government.
The petition further alleged a diversion of project funds for purposes unrelated to the contract.
Acting on the petition, operatives of the Special Task Fraud Section attached to the Enugu Zonal Directorate of the EFCC commenced investigations, leading to the recovery of the N1.234 billion on behalf of the state government.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Zonal Director, Enugu Zonal Directorate of the EFCC, Commander of the EFCC, CE Daniel Isei, who represented the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Ola Olukoyede, reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to restitution and accountability.
“Where there are instances of economic and financial crimes against an individual, an agency of government or government itself, the EFCC will ensure that such acts are dealt with in accordance with the law and that restitution is made where possible,” Isei said.
He added that the Commission would continue to investigate the matter and ensure that every kobo belonging to the Enugu State Government is fully accounted for.
Olukoyede also warned contractors handling public funds to strictly adhere to the Procurement Act, stressing that failure to utilize or account for public funds would attract EFCC intervention and possible prosecution.
Receiving the recovered funds on behalf of the Enugu State Government, Onyia commended the EFCC for its professionalism, focus and diligence throughout the investigation process.
He noted that despite public distractions surrounding the case, the Commission remained committed to due process and thorough investigation.
“This is a remarkable testimony of intergovernmental collaboration and transparency. We appreciate the EFCC for helping us recover this fund,” he said.
The EFCC reiterated that investigations into the Sujimoto contract are ongoing and that further recoveries and prosecutions may follow where criminal liability is established.
