Enugu recovers N1.28bn from Sujimoto as EFCC continues probe

 

The Enugu State Government has recovered N1.284 billion from Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, following an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into alleged diversion of funds meant for the construction of Smart Green Schools in the state.

The recovered sum, which formed part of payments earlier made to the company for projects that were allegedly not executed as agreed, was formally handed over to the state government on Wednesday at the EFCC’s Enugu Zonal Office.

EFCC Zonal Director in Enugu, Mr. Daniel Ise, said the recovery was in line with the Commission’s statutory responsibility to trace, recover and restitute public funds lost to economic and financial crimes.

He disclosed that the recovery followed a petition submitted by the Enugu State Government, which prompted the Commission to commence investigations into the transaction.

“As of today, we have recovered cheques amounting to N1,234,350,000 and an additional N50 million, bringing the total recovery to N1,284,350,000 on behalf of the Enugu State Government,” Ise said.

He attributed the recovery to the diligence and professionalism of EFCC investigators but stressed that the handover of the funds did not mark the conclusion of the case.

“This does not mean the investigation has ended. We will continue to examine every aspect of the petition to ensure that every kobo belonging to the Enugu State Government is fully accounted for and recovered,” he said.

Ise added that the Commission would not hesitate to initiate prosecution if evidence of criminal conduct is established, urging contractors to strictly adhere to existing laws, particularly the Public Procurement Act.

Receiving the cheques on behalf of the state government, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, commended the EFCC for its professionalism, focus and resilience despite what he described as distractions and misinformation in the public space.

Prof. Onyia said the recovery underscored the state government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and prudent management of public resources.

He assured that the recovered funds would be deployed strictly for development projects aimed at improving the welfare of residents.

“When we observed a clear disconnect between our development objectives and the outcomes on ground, we approached the EFCC to assist in recovering public funds. Today marks a significant milestone in that recovery process, and we are encouraged by the progress recorded so far,” he said.