Tearful Sujimoto denies wrongdoing, blames EFCC troubles on Enugu State dispute

Luxury real estate mogul, Olasijibomi “Sujimoto” Ogundele, has spoken publicly for the first time since being declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday, September 5, 2025.

In a video released from an undisclosed location, the 44-year-old developer, visibly shaken, broke down in tears while narrating his side of the story.

He attributed his ordeal to a business dispute involving his company, Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, and the Enugu State Government, insisting that he has been making efforts to resolve the matter amicably.

“This is a deal gone sour. I have been reaching out to settle it, but things have now taken a different turn,” Ogundele said as he wiped tears during the recording.

The EFCC had on Friday declared Ogundele wanted over allegations of diversion of funds and money laundering. According to the agency, several invitations extended to the developer for questioning had gone unanswered, prompting the declaration.

The anti-graft body has urged anyone with useful information on his whereabouts to contact its offices or the nearest police station.

Ogundele, who resides in Lagos’ upscale Banana Island, is one of Nigeria’s most recognizable real estate entrepreneurs.

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Through the Sujimoto brand, he has carved a niche for himself by developing high-rise luxury apartments, landmark towers, and architecturally ambitious projects that target the ultra-wealthy.

His meteoric rise and flamboyant lifestyle have often made headlines, and his brand has been synonymous with opulence in Nigeria’s real estate market.

The case has drawn widespread public interest, not only because of Ogundele’s prominence, but also due to the unusual step of releasing an emotional public statement from hiding.

While some Nigerians have expressed sympathy for his plight, others argue that his tears do not absolve him of the allegations, urging him to submit himself to the EFCC to clear his name.

The EFCC, meanwhile, has not confirmed whether it will initiate an international manhunt should Ogundele remain in hiding.