By Chibuike Eze
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has recovered over N1.28 billion from Mr. Olasijibomi Ogundele, CEO of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Ltd, following allegations of contract fraud involving the Enugu State Government.
The recovered funds relate to payments made for the construction of 22 Smart Green Schools across the state, projects which were reportedly abandoned or largely unexecuted.
The total sum recovered amounts to N1,284,350,000, including drafts and cheques handed over to the state government on Wednesday in Enugu.
EFCC Zonal Director in Enugu, Mr. Daniel Ise, said the recovery followed a petition submitted by the state government, prompting the Commission to investigate and trace public funds lost through economic and financial crimes.
He explained that while the handover marks a significant milestone, investigations are ongoing to ensure that every kobo belonging to the Enugu State Government is accounted for, adding that the Commission will pursue prosecution where evidence of criminality is established.
Mr. Ise also urged contractors to strictly adhere to the Public Procurement Act, warning that accountability in the execution of public contracts remains non-negotiable.
Receiving the cheques on behalf of the state government, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, commended the EFCC for its professionalism and resilience in the face of public scrutiny.
Prof. Onyia stated that the recovered funds will be reinvested in infrastructure projects to benefit residents, underscoring the Enugu State Government’s commitment to transparency, traceability, and accountability in governance.
He added that legal action had been initiated against the contractor and that all ongoing investigations will follow due process to ensure appropriate consequences for any failure to deliver value for public funds.
