Real estate mogul Olasijibomi Ogundele, popularly known as Suji Moto, who was recently declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has appeared in a trending video, shedding tears and lamenting that his reputation has been destroyed.

 

In the video, Sujimoto vowed to surrender himself to the EFCC, insisting that he is not a thief and expressing optimism that he would clear his name.

 

He explained that his involvement in the controversial Smart School project in Enugu State was at the insistence of Governor Peter Mbah, who allegedly persuaded him to take on the contract despite his reservations about pricing.

 

According to him, he had initially proposed building a 69-storey skyscraper in the state, but the governor asked him to first deliver the Smart School project. Sujimoto claimed that while he mobilised 42 engineers and began work, the project was frustrated by price fluctuations, insecurity, and poor funding.

 

“I’m not a thief. I’m not a fugitive. This is the contract between my company and the Enugu State brand,” he said tearfully. “When we took the contract, cement was ₦7,000. By the time we left, cement was ₦10,000. I told the governor this project was impossible because of the pricing, but he said, ‘Don’t worry, just help me do this.’”

 

The embattled contractor further alleged that his workers were attacked by armed men at project sites, and that he personally suffered injuries during the course of execution. He maintained that despite challenges, he stayed on the project until disagreements with the state government led to litigation.

 

“They have destroyed my company that I built with my sweat. But I’m going to the EFCC’s office. I will clear my name,” he declared.

 

The EFCC is yet to formally respond to Sujimoto’s claims. Meanwhile, his emotional video has sparked mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians sympathising with him while others insist he must account for funds allegedly mismanaged.