The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has recovered N1.234 billion from Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited and returned the funds to the Enugu State Government.
The recovery was confirmed in a statement issued by the anti-graft agency via its official X account on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
The action followed a formal petition submitted by the Enugu State Government after Sujimoto failed to execute a contract for the construction of 22 smart schools, despite receiving advance payments totaling more than N2.28 billion.
What the EFCC is saying
According to the commission, it commenced investigations after receiving a request from the Enugu State Government in February 2025, alleging that the construction firm diverted funds meant for the smart schools project.
The petition accused the company, led by Olasijibomi Ogundele, of nonperformance, breach of contract, and misapplication of public funds, which the state government said pointed to an intent to defraud.
EFCC operatives from the Special Task Fraud Section of the Enugu Zonal Directorate investigated the matter and successfully recovered N1,234,350,000 on behalf of the state.
“In line with its unwavering commitment to the fight against corruption, economic and financial crimes, and the recovery of misappropriated public funds, the EFCC on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, handed over the sum of N1,234,350,000 to the Enugu State Government. The funds were recovered from Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited for failure to honour its agreement with the state over the construction of 22 smart schools,” the commission stated.
More insights
The EFCC reiterated that contractors entrusted with public funds must comply strictly with the Public Procurement Act and uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity.
The commission added that it would continue to pursue individuals and companies involved in the diversion or mismanagement of public resources, regardless of their status.
Officials of the Enugu State Government, who received the recovered funds, commended the EFCC for its professionalism and thorough investigation, noting that the recovery would help mitigate financial losses suffered by the state.
What you should know
In September 2025, the EFCC declared Ogundele wanted over alleged diversion of funds and money laundering linked to the N5.7 billion 22 Smart Green Schools project.
The businessman later released a video denying any wrongdoing, blaming project delays on rising construction costs, inflation, manpower shortages, security concerns, and broader economic challenges. He maintained that engineers had been mobilised to project sites and that he remained committed to completing the schools.
Following continued delays, the Enugu State Government formally petitioned the EFCC, alleging that Ogundele disappeared after receiving about 50% of the contract sum, leaving the projects largely abandoned.
Subsequent investigations revealed minimal work at most sites, with several locations lacking proper excavation and structural compliance. A joint inspection carried out by officials of the Enugu Ministry of Works and the EFCC in May 2025 reportedly confirmed the lack of substantial progress across multiple project locations.
The recovery of N1.234 billion represents a partial return of funds linked to the stalled smart schools project and underscores ongoing efforts by the EFCC to recover misappropriated public resources.
Emmanuel Bassey is a Financial Expert that has worked in the Banking and Finance Industry for over 15+ years across different banks in Nigeria
