The Chief Executive Officer of Sujimoto Construction Limited, Sijibomi Ogundele, has pledged to voluntarily report to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following his declaration as a wanted person over allegations of money laundering and fund diversion.
In an emotional video statement released on Friday, the visibly distressed real estate developer maintained his innocence and expressed determination to clear his reputation.
“I’m not a thief, I’m not a fugitive. I am going to the EFCC office to clear my name,” Ogundele stated through tears.
According to Ogundele, the controversy stems from a construction contract his company had with the Enugu State Government. He explained that what began as a routine government project evolved into a more ambitious undertaking when the governor expressed interest in building a city featuring Nigeria’s tallest building.
“This is a contract between my company and Enugu State Government. Enugu State Government asked me to help them build a couple of things which was very interesting. I was going to the state every week,” he recounted.
The project eventually became the subject of legal proceedings, with Ogundele claiming that despite reaching an agreement with the government after court action, he was subsequently declared wanted.
The businessman lamented that economic challenges and project delays had severely impacted his operations over the past five years. He cited inflation as a major factor that transformed what should have been a two-year project into a prolonged ordeal.
“In the last five years, prices have gone crazy, something I could have done in two years was delayed,” Ogundele explained, adding that the EFCC’s action had “destroyed” the company he had built.
The anti-graft agency had earlier issued a public notice seeking information about Ogundele’s whereabouts. The EFCC described the 43-year-old Ekiti State native, who resides in Banana Island, Lagos, as wanted for money laundering and diversion of funds.
The case adds Ogundele to the commission’s list of high-profile individuals declared wanted for various financial crimes. While some such cases have resulted in convictions, others have either been dismissed or remain in protracted legal battles, sparking ongoing debates about the EFCC’s investigative and prosecution methods.
With his public commitment to cooperate with authorities, Ogundele’s case will likely test the EFCC’s evidence and could provide clarity on the disputed Enugu State contract that triggered the investigation.
The real estate sector will be watching closely as one of its prominent figures faces serious allegations that could impact both his business empire and the broader industry’s reputation.
Ayo Sogbuyi is a seasoned journalist with over 30 years of experience, he is a passionate advocate for press freedom and ethical reporting. Throughout his career, he has covered significant global events and championed the role of journalism in holding power to account.