The Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the alleged ₦5.7 billion contract scandal involving Sujimoto Luxury Construction Company and the Enugu State Government’s Smart School project.
In a statement signed by Dr. Stephen Nwala, President of FOSAD, and Dr. Uzor Ngoladi, Secretary General, the forum expressed deep concern over the reports suggesting massive irregularities in the award and execution of the project.
According to FOSAD, the Smart School initiative, which was conceived to enhance digital literacy and modernize learning infrastructure in Enugu State, has instead been enmeshed in allegations of inflated contracts, poor accountability, and questionable implementation.
“This is a matter of grave importance, not just to Enugu State but to Nigeria at large,” the statement read. “The education sector cannot continue to suffer from corruption and mismanagement, especially when billions of naira meant for the future of our children are allegedly diverted or misapplied. The EFCC must act swiftly, transparently, and without bias to investigate this scandal and ensure that all culpable individuals and corporate entities are brought to justice.”
A Call for Transparency and Accountability
FOSAD emphasized that public trust in government projects rests on transparency and prudent use of resources. It noted that if the allegations against Sujimoto Luxury Construction Company and their collaborators within government are proven, it would amount to a betrayal of public trust and an assault on the educational aspirations of children in Enugu State.
“Every kobo earmarked for the Smart School project was meant to provide 21st-century learning opportunities for pupils. To mismanage or misappropriate such funds is to rob young people of their right to quality education and technological advancement,” the forum declared.
FOSAD urged the EFCC to pursue its investigation without succumbing to political influence or corporate lobbying, stressing that the Nigerian public deserves clarity and justice. It further called on civil society organizations, the media, and educational stakeholders to remain vigilant and demand accountability at all levels.
Education Must Not Be Compromised
The forum reiterated its longstanding position that education is the bedrock of sustainable national development and must be insulated from corruption, mismanagement, and opportunism. It warned that scandals of this magnitude could erode confidence in public-private partnerships and discourage genuine investors from engaging in educational development projects.
“The Smart School project was supposed to be a model of innovation and progress. Instead, it risks becoming a monument of corruption if the allegations are not thoroughly investigated and addressed,” the statement warned.
FOSAD therefore tasks the EFCC to deploy all necessary investigative mechanisms to unravel the truth behind the ₦5.7 billion contract scandal. If found guilty, both the corporate actors and complicit government officials must face the full weight of the law.
“Accountability is non-negotiable,” the forum concluded. “The future of our children and the integrity of Nigeria’s education sector are too important to be sacrificed on the altar of corruption.”
