The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has returned ₦1.28 billion to the Enugu State Government following the recovery of funds linked to abandoned smart school projects in the state. The recovery is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial mismanagement involving the Sujimoto Group and other entities connected to the projects.
The EFCC confirmed that the funds were recovered after tracing financial transactions related to contracts awarded for the construction of smart schools across several local government areas in Enugu State. Despite substantial payments, many of the projects were reportedly left incomplete or entirely abandoned.
Officials of the anti-graft agency stated that the refund represents only a portion of the total funds under investigation. The EFCC emphasized that its probe is still ongoing and that additional recoveries may follow as more evidence is reviewed.
Enugu State Government officials acknowledged receipt of the funds and assured residents that recovered monies would be redirected toward critical development needs, including education and infrastructure. The state government also pledged full cooperation with the EFCC to ensure accountability and transparency.
The smart school initiative was originally introduced to modernize education in Enugu State through digital learning facilities. However, delays and alleged financial irregularities stalled progress, prompting public outcry and calls for investigation.
Civil society groups have praised the EFCC’s intervention, describing the recovery as a positive step toward curbing corruption in public education projects. They also urged the government to strengthen oversight mechanisms to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The EFCC reiterated its commitment to tracking public funds and prosecuting individuals found culpable. The commission stressed that recovered assets would continue to be returned to affected governments or institutions in line with the law.
