The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced a reward of up to $10,000 (approximately ₦14 million) for credible information that could lead to the arrest and conviction of Olumide Adebiyi Adediran.
He is a Nigerian national who has been on the run for more than two decades.
Adediran vanished from the Central District of Illinois in late December 2001, just days before his federal trial was scheduled to begin.
Also, he was facing multiple charges, including bank fraud, identification document fraud, and credit card fraud.
In a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the FBI reaffirmed its commitment to tracking him down, stating:
“The FBI offers a reward of up to $10,000 for info leading to the arrest and conviction of Olumide Adebiyi Adediran, wanted for violation of conditions of release. Adediran fled the Central District of Illinois at the end of December of 2001, shortly before his trial was set to begin on federal charges of bank fraud, identification document fraud, and credit card fraud.”
Background of the Case
According to details published on the Bureau’s official website, Adediran is accused of violating his release conditions after he allegedly attempted to defraud a bank.
Also, in August 2001, investigators say he entered a bank in Champaign, Illinois, and tried to withdraw money using a fraudulent cheque.
He is further accused of using stolen identities of U.S. citizens to open multiple bank and credit card accounts
This formed the basis of the charges against him.
However, by fleeing before the commencement of his trial, Adediran not only avoided prosecution but also became a fugitive from justice.
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On January 2, 2002, the United States District Court issued a federal arrest warrant for him on charges of violating the conditions of his release.
Call for Information
However, the FBI is urging anyone with credible information about Adediran’s whereabouts to come forward.
FBI stresses that the $10,000 reward will only be issued if such information directly leads to his arrest and conviction.
