US Agencies Endorse Ghana’s Probe into Ken Ofori-Atta as Legitimate

The Government of Ghana’s efforts to hold former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta accountable for his tenure have gained international backing, as sources within the United States Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) say the probe does not amount to political persecution.

Officials at the US Embassy in Accra have reportedly confirmed to sections of the media that the FBI is satisfied that the ongoing investigations into Mr Ofori-Atta’s financial stewardship under the Nana Akufo-Addo-led administration are rooted in legitimate state interests rather than a witch-hunt.

Ofori-Atta, currently in the United States receiving medical treatment, has raised concerns that the actions of Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) amount to a violation of his human rights. He has accused the government of orchestrating a campaign of political harassment under the guise of anti-corruption efforts.

The OSP, in conjunction with the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and the National Investigation Bureau (NIB), is seeking to question the former minister over alleged financial misconduct and causing financial loss to the state.

After Ofori-Atta failed to respond to multiple invitations for interrogation, the OSP twice declared him a fugitive and is now pursuing his extradition through Ghana’s Attorney General and Minister for Justice.

Extradition is a complex legal process requiring the cooperation of the host country—in this case, the United States—which must be convinced that the request is genuine, lawful, and not politically motivated. The confirmation by US authorities that the case is legitimate significantly boosts Ghana’s legal standing in this pursuit.

Legal experts note that the former minister may still contest the extradition in US courts, which could delay proceedings, but the FBI’s position gives weight to Ghana’s claims.

Ofori-Atta has filed several lawsuits to overturn the declaration that he is wanted, and continues to assert that his rights have been violated.

Meanwhile, the case highlights broader questions about accountability and the rule of law in Ghana, as well as the international frameworks that govern cross-border law enforcement cooperation.