On September 5, 2025, Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), declared Olasijibomi Suji Ogundele, the CEO of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, wanted over allegations of money laundering and diversion of funds.
EFCC’s Public Notice
According to a statement by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, Ogundele is wanted for allegedly obtaining money under false pretenses and laundering significant sums through questionable property transactions.
The EFCC listed the following personal information in its public notice:
- Full Name: Olasijibomi Suji Ogundele
- Age: 44 years
- State of Origin: Ori-Ade Local Government Area, Osun State
- Last Known Address: G29, Banana Island, Ikoyi, Lagos State
The commission called on members of the public with information on Ogundele’s whereabouts to contact any of its offices nationwide or reach out via official channels including its hotline and email address.
Background and Previous Allegations
Ogundele, known for developing high-end real estate in Lagos—particularly in Ikoyi and Banana Island—has been under scrutiny for some time. In October 2024, he was detained by the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja following a petition from a client who claimed to have paid $325,000 as part-payment for a luxury flat in Sujimoto’s “Leonardo” project, which allegedly never materialized.
The petition, filed by human rights lawyer Pelumi Olajengbesi, accused Ogundele of breach of contract, fraud, and deceit.
Ogundele’s Reaction
Following the EFCC declaration, Ogundele released a video statement where he emotionally denied all allegations, stating that he is “not a thief” and has “nothing to hide.” He claimed the issue was the result of a failed government-backed construction deal in Enugu State, which was derailed by unstable building material prices and security challenges.
He vowed to appear before the EFCC to clear his name and restore the reputation of his brand.
Sector Implications
This high-profile case is expected to send ripples across Nigeria’s luxury real estate and construction industries. The EFCC’s actions suggest an intensified effort to hold business executives accountable for alleged financial misconduct, especially in sectors known for high cash flows and complex transactions.
What’s Next?
Legal analysts anticipate that Ogundele’s voluntary appearance at EFCC headquarters, if it occurs, will be pivotal. Formal charges may follow, depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
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