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FBI Involvement Elevates Stakes in Detention of Ken Ofori-Atta, Says US Envoy

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The detention of former Ghanaian Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has taken on added complexity.

According to Ghana’s High Commissioner to the United States, Victor Emmanuel Smith, there is now the involvement of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the embattled former minister’s case.

In an interview on Joy News’ PM Express on January 12, 2026, Ambassador Smith explained that while ICE typically handles routine immigration violations, the FBI’s participation signals that the matter extends beyond standard visa or residency issues.

“I suspect it’s a combination of these two factors. ICE normally will pick you for immigration issues, but then, when the FBI comes in, then there must be some criminality or Interpol police request so that the red alert comes in there,” Smith stated.

The High Commissioner further suggested that the dual agency involvement points to potential cooperation between Ghanaian authorities and US law enforcement.

“So the combination of the two of them convinces me that the Ghana government had requested this man to be brought in to help us, if you like, unravel some issues that have been brought against him as a former minister,” he added.

Ofori-Atta, who served as Finance Minister from 2017 to 2024 under former President Nana Akufo-Addo, was detained on January 6, 2026, in the Virginia area after agents apprehended him as he left his residence.

His US visa was reportedly revoked in July 2025, with instructions to depart by late November, though he remained in the country while pursuing a pending petition for adjustment of status—a legal process allowing individuals to extend their stay beyond initial visa terms.

The Ghanaian embassy in Washington, DC, activated consular procedures upon learning of the detention, requesting access to ensure Ofori-Atta was treated in accordance with international protocols. ICE confirmed he was medically fit for detention following an assessment.

However, the planned visit did not proceed: Ofori-Atta initially declined to meet embassy officials without his lawyers present, and later refused any meeting under any circumstances.

“So that was the end of the road for me and the embassy,” Smith noted.

Ofori-Atta’s legal team has described him as fully cooperating with authorities, stating that the detention relates primarily to immigration matters and is expected to be resolved expeditiously. Ofori-Atta is scheduled to appear before a US immigration judge on January 20, 2026, with rights to appeal through higher courts if necessary.

The case draws heightened attention in Ghana, where Ofori-Atta faces multiple corruption and financial misconduct charges related to his tenure, including allegations tied to the Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) scandal.

He was declared a fugitive in February 2025 and formally charged in November. Ghanaian authorities, including Attorney General Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, have confirmed collaboration with US counterparts predating recent developments, and have assured fair treatment upon any potential return.

Ambassador Smith described the matter as a high-profile case due to Ofori-Atta’s former ministerial status, distinguishing it from routine immigration enforcement.

Ghana News

Ibrahim Mahama Acquires New $70 Million Private Jet

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Accra, Ghana – March 3, 2026 – Ghanaian business tycoon Ibrahim Mahama has added a state-of-the-art Bombardier Global 6500 to his aviation fleet, with the ultra-long-range private jet valued at approximately $70 million.

The aircraft was purchased in 2024 and officially delivered in February 2026. A viral video circulating on social media today shows Mahama boarding the sleek grey-and-white jet, which proudly displays his signature “Dzata” (meaning “Lion”) branding on the tail—symbolizing strength, leadership, and his personal identity.

The Bombardier Global 6500 is one of the most advanced business jets in the world, boasting:

-A range of up to 6,600 nautical miles (enough for non-stop flights from Accra to New York, London, or Dubai)

-Maximum speed of Mach 0.90

A- spacious, customizable cabin featuring private suites, lounge areas, office space, high-end entertainment systems, and advanced climate control

-Bombardier’s cutting-edge Vision flight deck for enhanced safety and navigation

Ibrahim Mahama, younger brother of President John Dramani Mahama, is one of Ghana’s most prominent entrepreneurs and philanthropists.

His business empire spans mining (through Engineers & Planners), cement production (Dzata Cement), infrastructure development, and various charitable initiatives. The new jet aligns with his reputation for blending bold business moves with luxury and innovation.

The acquisition comes amid growing interest in private aviation among Africa’s high-net-worth individuals and reinforces Ghana’s position as a hub for influential business figures on the continent.

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Ghana News

Ghana’s Top Muslim Leader Condemns Khamenei Assassination, Calls for New World Order Based on ‘Right Over Might’

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ACCRA, GHANA – March 3, 2026 – In a strongly worded message that resonates far beyond West Africa, Ghana’s highest spiritual authority for the Muslim community has officially condemned the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

National Chief Imam, Shaikh Dr. Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, issued a passionate plea for a global restructuring based on ethical principles over military power.

The message from the National Chief Imam released to the media in Ghana describes the late Iranian leader as a “pious man” and a “symbol of resistance and hope for the oppressed.”

The statement directly denounces the operation that led to his death as a “US-cum-Israeli aggression” carried out during the holy month of Ramadan.

The statement, released by his Personal Assistant Dr. Mohammed Marzuq Abubakari Azindoo on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, throws the Ghanaian Muslim community’s moral weight behind Tehran, describing the killing of the Ayatollah not as a political assassination but as a “martyrdom” that has thrown the global Islamic fraternity into sorrow.

A Broader Plea for Humanity

However, in a move that underscores the complexities of modern geopolitics, the Chief Imam’s message extends beyond sectarian lines. He explicitly expressed sadness over the loss of all lives in the ongoing conflict, including “Jewish or American, Arab or Persian.”

This inclusive tone positions the respected Ghanaian religious leader as a potential voice of moderation. He urged all warring factions to respect the sovereignty of nations, the dignity of humanity, and the sanctity of the Ramadan period.

“In the wisdom of His Eminence, contemporary society needs a new global order that articulates the centrality of RIGHT over MIGHT,” the statement reads. “This, he contends, will consolidate peace and security for the entirety of humanity.”

Geo-politics and Interfaith Harmony

The Chief Imam’s office acknowledged the deeply “geo-political” nature of the current tensions but insisted that “interfaith harmony has a role in search for solution.”

His call for an immediate end to hostilities and a shift from “escalating rhetorics” to “peace building pragmatics” arrives at a moment of extreme volatility in the Middle East.

By invoking the spirit of Ramadan—a time of reflection and mercy—Shaikh Sharubutu is appealing to the shared values of the Abrahamic faiths to de-escalate the situation.

The statement has been described by experts as a significant diplomatic signal from Ghana, a nation known for its religious tolerance and stable democracy. It places the country’s Muslim leadership firmly on the side of dialogue and against what it perceives as foreign aggression, while simultaneously calling for the protection of all innocent life.

As the world watches the fallout from Tehran, the voice from Accra adds a distinct moral dimension to the debate: a call for a global order where ethical right, rather than geopolitical might, determines the future of international peace.

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Ghana News

Top 10 Questions on the Escalating US-Israel-Iran Conflict Answered

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Accra, Ghana – March 3, 2026 – As the US-Israel-Iran conflict enters its third day, marked by deadly airstrikes, missile barrages, and the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, global audiences are flooded with breaking alerts, viral claims, and instant analysis.

In a special segment on Firstpost’s Vantage, veteran journalist Palki Sharma Upadhyay addressed the most pressing viewer-submitted questions to cut through the noise and provide clear, concise answers.

Key points from the explainer:

1. What exactly is happening?
The US and Israel launched attacks on Iran, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on US bases and allied interests across the Gulf.

2. Is this war going to get bigger?
It appears likely. The conflict shows no immediate signs of stopping.

3. When will it end?
No one knows. The situation remains highly unpredictable.

4. Will Russia, China, or NATO join the war?
No. Major powers are not expected to enter directly.

5. Will this go nuclear?
Highly unlikely. Nuclear escalation is not anticipated.

6. What role is the United Nations playing?
The UN has condemned the violence but is limited to diplomatic calls for restraint.

7. What does it mean for oil-importing countries like Ghana and other African nations?
It is not good news. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz or Gulf supply routes could drive up crude and LNG prices, directly impacting energy costs, inflation, and household budgets in import-dependent economies.

8. Why is the US doing this at all?
The motivation remains unclear even to many Americans—43% disapprove of the strikes according to recent polls.

9. What should you do if you’re stuck in the region?
Do not panic. Follow official advisories, contact your embassy, and stay where you are.

10. Does anyone actually have an exit strategy?
It depends on decisions made by US President Donald Trump.

The segment reflects growing global anxiety over the conflict’s trajectory, with African governments—including Ghana—issuing shelter-in-place advisories, partial embassy evacuations, and travel warnings for nationals in the Gulf and Iran.

The potential for higher oil prices and disrupted shipping routes threatens to reverse recent single-digit inflation gains in oil-importing African countries.

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