Ken Ofori-Atta’s Extradition: FBI Rules Out Witch-Hunt, Boosting Ghana’s Pursuit
The Government of Ghana’s efforts to extradite former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, aged 66, to face allegations of financial malfeasance have progressed significantly, with the U.S.
Department of Justice and FBI determining that the pursuit is legitimate and not a political witch-hunt, according to sources at the U.S. Embassy in Accra cited by MyJoyOnline. Ofori-Atta, who served as Finance Minister from 2017 to 2024 under President Nana Akufo-Addo, is wanted by Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), and National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) for investigations into alleged corruption, including misuse of public funds and causing financial loss to the state.
The OSP declared Ofori-Atta a fugitive in February 2025 after he failed to appear for questioning on February 10, 2025, regarding five high-profile cases: the National Cathedral project, Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited’s contract with the Ghana Revenue Authority, Electricity Company of Ghana’s contract termination with Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology, ambulance procurement for 307 Mercedes-Benz vehicles, and GRA tax refund disbursements. An Interpol Red Notice was issued on June 6, 2025, requesting global law enforcement to detain him pending extradition. Ofori-Atta, reportedly in the U.S. for medical treatment, has claimed the OSP’s actions violate his human rights, filing lawsuits to challenge his fugitive status and seeking to bar the OSP from re-declaring him wanted. However, a court dismissed his request on June 18, 2025, imposing a GHc5,000 cost.
The extradition process, coordinated by Ghana’s Attorney General and supported by U.S. authorities, is underway but may face delays due to legal challenges, as Ofori-Atta can contest the process in U.S. courts. His legal team, led by Frank Davies, insists he is unwell and unable to travel, submitting medical records that the OSP has dismissed as insufficient. Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu noted that credible medical evidence could complicate extradition if U.S. authorities accept it. The FBI’s involvement, through its Legal Attachés, underscores international cooperation in the case, with the U.S. confirming the allegations—centered on Ofori-Atta’s tenure, including the controversial $58 million National Cathedral project—are not politically motivated.
Solomon Owusu of the Movement for Change proposed a barter deal, suggesting Ghana extradite cybercrime suspects to the U.S. in exchange for Ofori-Atta’s return, highlighting the case’s broader implications. As Ghana’s Operation Recover All Loot, launched by President John Mahama, targets over $20 billion in alleged corruption, Ofori-Atta’s case remains a critical test of the country’s anti-corruption resolve. Updates on the extradition process can be followed through official OSP channels or www.osp.gov.gh.
