U.S. ICE Confirms Ken Ofori-Atta Overstayed Visa, Labels Him “Illegal Alien”
The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has confirmed that Ghana’s former Finance Minister, Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, overstayed his visa and is currently considered an “illegal alien” under U.S. immigration law.
According to ICE, Mr. Ofori-Atta entered the United States on May 28, 2025, using a visitor’s visa that expired on November 27, 2025. His failure to depart the country upon the expiration of the visa constitutes a violation of U.S. immigration regulations and may result in deportation.
An ICE spokesperson provided the clarification in correspondence with TV3 journalist Joseph Ackah-Blay, following public speculation about the reasons for the former minister’s arrest. While some reports suggested his detention was linked to Ghana’s extradition request, ICE indicated that his current custody is strictly tied to immigration violations.
“Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta is an illegal alien from Ghana facing corruption and corruption-related charges in his home country. He entered the United States on a visitor’s visa with an expiration date of November 27, 2025, and overstayed his permitted admission.”
ICE further explained that Mr. Ofori-Atta has been issued a Notice to Appear and will remain in custody as his case goes through the legal process before a U.S. Department of Justice immigration judge.
The agency emphasized that the detention is in line with the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policy, stressing that visa overstays are punishable under U.S. law.
“Aliens must respect our laws or face the consequences. Overstaying a visa is an immigration law violation that can result in deportation,” ICE stated.
Mr. Ofori-Atta is facing multiple corruption-related allegations in Ghana linked to his tenure as Finance Minister. His failure to appear before Ghanaian courts prompted the Government of Ghana to formally request his extradition from the United States.
ICE has not confirmed whether the extradition request will influence future proceedings, noting that immigration due process must first be completed.
