Sujimoto Construction CEO, Olasijibomi Ogundele, rejects fraud allegations
It was reported that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has listed Ogundele as wanted for alleged fund diversion and money laundering.
The EFCC’s notice was shared on its official X handle, urging anyone with credible information on Ogundele’s location to come forward.
Ogundele, in a video on Twitter, stated he is not a fugitive and called the allegations unjust.
The Lagos-based property developer explained that the issues stemmed from a contract with the Enugu State Government, which involved building schools and a proposed 69-storey building.
He mobilized a team of 42 engineers and temporarily relocated to Enugu to oversee the projects, even suffering a serious accident during the work.
Ogundele mentioned that rising costs of construction materials, particularly cement, and other unforeseen challenges led to delays and disputes with the government.
He added that his staff faced attacks while on duty, yet they persevered.
The disagreement ultimately resulted in court proceedings, and although he was willing to meet with the government to resolve payments, the EFCC notice followed instead.
Ogundele claimed that the situation has tarnished his company’s reputation but vowed to visit EFCC offices to defend himself and restore his name.
He stated: “I am not a thief and I am not a fugitive. This is a contract between my company and the Enugu State Government.
“I was asked to help build schools and later design larger projects, including a proposed 69-storey building.
“Despite challenges, I mobilised 42 engineers, rented a home in the state, and worked tirelessly. I even had a serious accident during the project.
“When we took the contract, cement was ₦7,000. By the time we left, it was ₦10,000. My staff faced attacks in villages, even being shot at, but we continued working.
“Eventually, things soured with the government. We ended up in court, and I agreed to discuss payment resolutions. Instead of resolving the matter, they declared me wanted.
“They damaged my company and mistreated me, but I will go to the EFCC office to defend myself and clear my name.
“Prices of materials have skyrocketed in the last three years, and projects that should take two years have dragged on for five.”
