EFCC hands over N1.2bn recovered from Sujimoto to Enugu State over failed 22 smart schools project, vows further investigation and accountability.
EFCC Transfers N1.2 Billion Recovered from Sujimoto to Enugu Government Over Uncompleted Smart Schools Project
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over more than N1.2 billion recovered from Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited to the Enugu State Government, reinforcing its commitment to combating financial crimes and recovering public funds.
The recovery, which took place on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, followed investigations into an abandoned contract for the construction of 22 smart schools across Enugu State. The EFCC confirmed that the sum of N1,234,350,000 was retrieved after the construction firm failed to deliver the project despite receiving substantial advance payments.
According to the Commission, the case originated from a formal petition submitted to the EFCC on February 11, 2025. The petition accused Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited of fraudulent conduct after allegedly collecting N2.29 billion as advance payment for the school project without meeting contractual obligations.
The petition identified Dr. Olasijibomi Ogundele, Group Managing Director of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, as being jointly responsible for the contract failure. It stated that the agreed completion date of January 2, 2025 elapsed without meaningful progress, suggesting a clear breach of contract and intent to defraud the state government.
Following the complaint, operatives of the EFCC’s Special Task Fraud Section under the Enugu Zonal Directorate launched investigations. Their efforts led to the successful recovery of N1.234 billion, which was formally returned to the Enugu State Government.
Speaking during the handover ceremony on behalf of the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, the Enugu Zonal Director, Commander of the EFCC, CE Daniel Isei, emphasized the agency’s resolve to ensure accountability in the management of public funds. He stated that the EFCC would continue to act decisively wherever economic or financial crimes are identified, particularly those involving government resources.
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He also cautioned contractors handling public projects to strictly comply with the Procurement Act and uphold transparency and integrity. According to him, the Commission will thoroughly examine all aspects of the petition against Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited and recover every unaccounted kobo belonging to the Enugu State Government.
The EFCC further warned that criminal prosecution would follow if investigations establish evidence of fraud, stressing that adherence to due process and proper oversight remains key to preventing financial misconduct in public projects.