Ofori-Atta declines Ghana embassy visit without Lawyers after US detention

The Embassy of Ghana in Washington, DC, has confirmed that former Minister for Finance, Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, has been taken into custody by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

In a statement issued on January 10, 2026, and signed by Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Victor Emmanuel Smith, the Embassy said it took immediate steps to verify the circumstances surrounding the detention after receiving information on the matter.

According to the statement, following confirmation, the Embassy formally contacted the relevant detention facility to request access to Mr. Ofori-Atta to provide consular assistance in accordance with diplomatic and international protocols.

However, the Embassy disclosed that officials were informed by the detention facility that the former minister had declined to engage with consular representatives at that time.

“The Embassy was informed by the facility that the detainee declined to engage with consular officials at that time without his lawyers present,” the statement said.

Despite this, the Embassy assured that it remains actively engaged with the appropriate United States authorities and is closely monitoring the situation to ensure that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s rights are fully respected.

“The Embassy of Ghana remains in contact with the appropriate United States authorities and will continue to follow the matter closely to ensure that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s rights are totally respected,” Ambassador Smith stated.

The Embassy did not provide further details on the reasons for the detention or the duration of Mr. Ofori-Atta’s custody.

Read also…