Former Ghanaian Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has reportedly been detained by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), according to a public notice issued by his lawyers. The notice states that the arrest occurred on January 6, 2026, in connection with his current stay in the United States.
Legal Status Under Review
Ofori-Atta’s legal team confirmed that he has a pending petition for adjustment of status, which allows individuals to remain in the US legally beyond the validity of their visa. His lawyers emphasized that this is a routine procedure under US immigration law and that he is fully cooperating with ICE authorities.
“Mr Ofori-Atta has a pending petition for adjustment of status, which authorises a person to stay in the US legally beyond the period of validity of their visa. Under US law, a change of status by this method is common,” the notice read.
The legal team further assured the public that they are working closely with ICE to resolve the matter expeditiously.
Corruption Investigations and Fugitive Status in Ghana
Ofori-Atta has been implicated in several corruption-related investigations in Ghana and is currently a wanted fugitive in the country. However, his US lawyers stressed that his detention is strictly related to immigration procedures and not a criminal charge in the United States.
“The public is, therefore, advised to note that he is a law-abiding person and is fully cooperating with ICE to have this issue resolved,” the statement added.
Next Steps
Authorities say that the situation is being handled through legal channels, with Ofori-Atta’s lawyers in continuous communication with ICE to clarify his status and ensure that the matter is resolved promptly.
The case has already attracted significant attention in Ghana, where political and public reactions are expected as updates emerge regarding his legal situation in the United States.
 over his visa status while his legal team works to resolve the matter.){kind=link}