The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally declared Olasijibomi “Sujimoto” Ogundele, CEO of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, wanted on allegations of money laundering and diversion of funds.
The agency released a public notice on its official X handle on Friday, urging citizens with credible information about his whereabouts to come forward.
Ogundele, 44, originally from Ori-Ade Local Government Area in Osun State, was last known to reside at G29, Banana Island, Ikoyi, Lagos.
The EFCC has provided contact details for all its regional offices and encouraged tips via phone, email, or by reaching any nearest security agency.
Tracing the Web of Investigations
1. The EFCC’s Wanted Notice
The EFCC did not disclose the amount allegedly misappropriated. However, the declaration signals an intensifying investigation into Ogundele’s business dealings.
2. The 2024 Fraud Investigation
In October 2024, Ogundele was detained by the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) in Abuja. The arrest followed a petition by lawyer Pelumi Olajengbesi, who accused Ogundele of obtaining US$325,000 from a client under false pretenses for a flat in the “LeonardoBySujimoto” project—an apartment that never existed in practice. Ogundele was released on bail after the inquiry.
3. Accusations of Unpaid Investments
A March 2024 investigative report by FIJ (Foundation for Investigative Journalism) revealed another dispute involving an investor who claimed to have placed ₦70 million in a Sujimoto scheme with a promised annual return of 20%. By mid-2024, only ₦30 million had been returned, leaving an outstanding balance of roughly ₦90 million.
4. Influencer Claims
After the EFCC’s declaration, social media influencer Scott Iguma alleged in an Instagram video that Ogundele still owes another individual US$1.9 million, deepening the scrutiny around his operations.
Profile: Rise, Recognition, and Controversy
Olasijibomi Ogundele built Sujimoto into an acclaimed real estate brand, known for luxury developments on Banana Island and Ikoyi.
Born April 8, 1981, in Agege, he holds a law degree from Anglia Ruskin University (UK) and founded Sujimoto in 2013.
His rapid ascent earned him recognition as one of Nigeria’s “Top 10 Real Estate Disruptors,” and he was appointed as an ambassador by the Lagos State Governor in 2022.
Implications & Forward Outlook
| Area | Implication |
|---|---|
| Real Estate Sector | Heightened scrutiny on luxury developers; investor confidence at risk |
| Investor Vigilance | Ongoing disputes may prompt stronger due diligence and regulation |
| EFCC Monitoring | The public declaration signals increased enforcement resolve |
| Reputation Crisis | Ogundele’s credibility now deeply compromised across multiple fronts |
What to Watch
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EFCC Action: Will Ogundele be located and formally arrested? More revelations may surface as the probe deepens.
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Legal Follow-up: Updates may include asset seizures or court proceedings.
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Sector Response: Other real estate firms may tighten transparency and risk management to reassure stakeholders.
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Investor Interests: Those entangled in unresolved investment disputes may leverage this case to seek restitution.