The Chief Executive Officer of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, Sijibomi Ogundele, is under investigation in Abuja over allegations that he diverted ₦5.7 billion released by the Enugu State Government for a contract.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) confirmed late Monday that Mr. Ogundele, who recently surrendered after being declared wanted, was undergoing intensive questioning by investigators. As of 8 p.m., he remained in custody, with indications he may be detained further.
Accounts Frozen, Passport Seized
According to EFCC officials, the commission has moved to restrict his movements by seizing his passport and freezing both his personal and company bank accounts.
“He has been in our custody for more than ten hours based on a petition from the Enugu State Government,” a source said.
Background of the Dispute
The case centres on an ₦11 billion project awarded to Sujimoto by the Enugu State Government. Although an initial 30 percent advance was approved, Mr. Ogundele allegedly secured 50 percent upfront, amounting to ₦5.7 billion, to accelerate project delivery.
Authorities allege that only ₦750 million worth of work has been executed, with the contractor abandoning the project despite repeated requests for accountability.
Declared Wanted, Then Surrendered
Mr. Ogundele had earlier failed to honour multiple EFCC invitations, prompting the agency to declare him wanted. He later presented himself voluntarily in Abuja.
Ogundele Maintains Innocence
In a video statement, the Sujimoto boss rejected the allegations, framing the matter as a contractual dispute rather than a criminal case.
“I’m not a thief, I’m not a fugitive. This is a contract between my company and the Enugu State Government. Nothing more,” he said.
The EFCC has yet to announce whether further charges will follow.
