The Chief Executive Officer of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, Mr. Olasijibomi Ogundele, has reacted to his declaration as wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, over alleged diversion of funds and money laundering.
In a notice issued on Friday by the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the Lagos-based property developer, popularly known as Sujimoto, was listed among suspects being investigated for financial crimes.
Ogundele’s Emotional Reaction
In a video shared on social media, a visibly emotional Ogundele broke down in tears while denying the allegations.
He described himself as a legitimate businessman who has faced economic and security challenges in carrying out construction projects.
“I am not a thief and not a fugitive. This is a contract between my company and the Enugu State Government,” he said.
According to him, his company had been contracted to execute several projects in Enugu State, including schools and an ambitious plan for a 69-storey skyscraper.
He said the projects were stalled due to inflation and rising costs of materials.
“When we took the contract, a bag of cement was ₦7,000. By the time we left, it was ₦10,000. The economy went south on me. Things went sour between myself and the government,” Ogundele lamented.
Background on Sujimoto
Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited is one of Nigeria’s high-profile real estate firms, known for luxury residential developments in Lagos.
Its founder, Mr. Ogundele, has often projected himself as a symbol of ambitious property innovation in Nigeria.
However, the company has faced criticisms in the past for overambitious project announcements that were delayed or abandoned.
Industry observers say the latest controversy could test both the resilience of the brand and the credibility of high-end real estate ventures in the country.
EFCC’s Next Steps
When the EFCC declares an individual wanted, it usually precedes an arrest or invitation for questioning.
Suspects are expected to report voluntarily to the Commission’s office.
Mr. Ogundele has assured he will honour the EFCC’s process.
“They destroyed my company, but I will go to the EFCC office to clear my name,” he declared.
The anti-graft agency is yet to release further details on the nature of the alleged financial infractions.