In a surprising development, Ken Ofori-Atta, Ghana’s ex-Finance Minister, was taken into custody by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on January 6, 2026, due to discrepancies in his visa and residency status.
Sources indicate that Ofori-Atta has been residing in the US since early 2025 for health-related reasons, including treatment for a serious medical condition. His legal representatives have issued a statement affirming his complete cooperation with officials and highlighting an ongoing application for status adjustment that they believe will resolve the matter swiftly
Ken Ofori Atta, Former Ghana Finance Minister Detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) – VIDEO
The detention has sparked immediate reactions across Ghana, where Ofori-Atta faces outstanding legal challenges from his time in office.
Records from the ICE online detainee locator confirm that Ofori-Atta is currently housed at the Caroline Detention Facility in Bowling Green, Virginia, a site managed under federal immigration protocols
This facility is known for holding individuals pending immigration proceedings, and while no criminal charges have been filed in the US, the situation ties into broader concerns about his extended presence abroad. Back in Ghana, the Office of the Special Prosecutor had previously labeled him a fugitive in late 2025 over allegations of financial impropriety involving public funds during the Akufo-Addo administration, from which he was ousted in 2024 amid public outcry.
Social media and public discourse in Ghana have erupted with mixed sentiments, ranging from calls for his prompt extradition to face domestic accountability to criticisms labeling the detention as politically motivated.
Many online users express frustration over perceived delays in justice for alleged corruption, while others question the timing amid Ghana’s ongoing economic recovery efforts. Ofori-Atta’s role in debt restructuring initiatives during his tenure remains a point of contention, fueling debates on whether this US holdup could lead to his return for trial.
As the story unfolds, Ghanaian authorities are reportedly monitoring developments closely, with potential diplomatic discussions on the horizon. Ofori-Atta’s team maintains optimism for a quick release, emphasizing his health needs and legal compliance. This incident underscores the intersection of international immigration policies and national accountability, keeping Ghanaians watchful for updates on one of the country’s most prominent political figures.
