Nigerian Man Wanted for Murder and Child Abuse Joins U.S. Marshals’ “15 Most Wanted” List; $25,000 Reward Offered
Rhode Island authorities, with the U.S. Marshals Service, are intensifying efforts to locate Nigerian fugitive Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, 48, who faces charges of first-degree murder, serious child abuse, and fleeing to avoid prosecution.
Olawusi was added to the U.S. Marshals Service’s “15 Most Wanted” list, making him one of the nation’s highest-priority fugitives. A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for tips leading to his arrest.
The charges stem from an incident in April 2017 when Olawusi’s 3-month-old son was found with severe injuries in a Providence residence, showing signs of prolonged abuse. Despite emergency efforts, the child tragically passed away six months later. Authorities report that Olawusi fled the U.S. shortly after his initial arrest, and may now be in Nigeria with family support.
“This is a heinous crime, and we’re committed to bringing Olawusi to justice,” said U.S. Marshals Service Director Ronald L. Davis. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 or through the USMS Tips App.
The “15 Most Wanted” program has led to the capture of over 250 fugitives since its founding in 1983, focusing on those posing the greatest threat to public safety.
