he United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has reignited efforts to apprehend Nigerian national Olumide Adebiyi Adediran, offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to his arrest and conviction. Adediran, now a fugitive for nearly 24 years, fled the U.S. in late December 2001 before facing trial on federal charges including bank fraud, identity fraud, and credit card fraud.
According to the FBI, Adediran allegedly used stolen personal information to open fraudulent bank and credit accounts and attempted to withdraw funds using a fake check at a bank in Champaign, Illinois. A federal warrant was issued for his arrest on January 2, 2002, after he violated the conditions of his release.
This renewed manhunt is part of a broader U.S. crackdown on Nigerian-linked cybercrime networks. In recent months, the FBI has intensified its pursuit of transnational fraudsters, including the targeting of UK-based Nigerian national Ajibola Oduntan, accused of orchestrating multimillion-naira ticket scams. In June 2023, four other Nigerians were extradited to the U.S. over wire fraud and identity theft charges, signaling a coordinated international effort to dismantle cybercrime syndicates.
The FBI’s appeal for public assistance underscores the growing urgency to hold long-evading suspects accountable. Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to contact their local FBI office or submit tips online.
