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Renowned real estate developer, Olasijibomi Ogundele — popularly known as Sujimoto — has responded to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after the agency declared him wanted for alleged diversion of funds and money laundering.
The EFCC issued the public notice on Friday, September 5, signed by its spokesperson, Dele Oyewale. The declaration sent shockwaves through the real estate industry, prompting a swift and emotional response from the luxury property magnate.
In a video message released shortly after the announcement, Sujimoto denied the allegations, stating that the situation stemmed from a contractual dispute with the Enugu State Government, not any criminal wrongdoing.
“I am not a thief, and I am not a fugitive,” Sujimoto said tearfully. “This is a contract issue between my company and the Enugu State Government.”
He recounted how he was invited by the Enugu State Government to execute a series of construction projects, including an ambitious plan to build Nigeria’s tallest building. Sujimoto said the governor later requested his help in constructing several schools, assuring him that while the school projects might not be highly profitable, he would recoup his investment through future developments.
“I told the governor the school project wasn’t feasible at the agreed price,” he explained. “But he convinced me to proceed, promising more lucrative contracts down the line.”
Sujimoto said he mobilized over 40 engineers to the state, rented accommodation, and personally oversaw the project. However, soaring construction costs—such as the price of cement rising from ₦7,000 to ₦10,000—rendered the project financially unsustainable.
“My staff were even shot at while working in rural areas,” he added, describing the project as increasingly dangerous and economically draining.
According to him, the breakdown in the relationship with the state government eventually led to court action. Sujimoto claims he presented his records and expressed willingness to resolve the matter amicably, asking only for a fair assessment of outstanding obligations.
“They took me to court and I said, ‘Let’s settle. How much do we owe you?’ I wasn’t running from anyone.”
The luxury developer expressed dismay over the EFCC’s public declaration, which he believes has tarnished his reputation and jeopardized his company’s future.
“They’ve destroyed the company I built. But I will go to the EFCC office and clear my name,” he vowed.
Sujimoto concluded by emphasizing that volatile market conditions over the past five years significantly impacted project timelines and costs — challenges he says were beyond his control.
