Private legal practitioner and activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor has alleged that authorities in the United States of America (USA) may be obstructing Ghana’s efforts to extradite former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta, following his release from immigration detention.

In a statement shared on Facebook on April 10, 2026, Barker-Vormawor suggested that despite Ghana fulfilling all legal requirements for extradition, US officials particularly within the State Department appear to be delaying or withholding action on the request.

“What I still don’t understand is why the US authorities are sitting on Ghana’s extradition request,” he stated, adding that the documentation had been submitted months ago.

He called on Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to demand clarity from US authorities.

Details of Release from ICE Custody

Barker-Vormawor also disclosed new details surrounding Ofori-Atta’s release from custody under the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

$65K Bond, Electronic Monitor: Barker-Vormawor shares new details on Ofori-Atta's release from ICE detention

According to him, sources within the US Department of Justice indicated that the former minister was granted bail set at $65,000.

He noted that the decision to grant bail was influenced by Ofori-Atta’s health condition, although authorities reportedly consider him a potential flight risk.

As part of his bail conditions, Ofori-Atta has allegedly been fitted with an electronic ankle monitor to track his movements.

His mobility is said to be restricted within a defined area, and he is required to report regularly to ICE officials. His next immigration hearing is scheduled for April 27, 2026.

Questions Over Extradition Delay

Despite these developments, Barker-Vormawor expressed concern that the actions of US authorities could be undermining Ghana’s legal efforts to bring Ofori-Atta back to the country.

He argued that the continued delay raises questions about the role of the United States Department of State in the process, suggesting that the hold-up may not be procedural but deliberate.

Status Change Raises Further Questions

Meanwhile, checks on the ICE detainee database no longer show Ofori-Atta’s name, indicating a change in his custody status following his release.

The development has added to growing public scrutiny over the case, particularly regarding international cooperation and the handling of extradition requests between Ghana and the United States.

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