Connect with us

Ghana News

Ghana News Live Updates – January 8, 2026

Published

on

Stay tuned! This section will be updated throughout the day as new stories break across Ghana.


GWL Releases Water Rationing Timetable for Teshie, Nungua and Surrounding Areas

Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has issued a water rationing schedule for residents in parts of Teshie, Nungua, Baatsona and Sakumono to manage ongoing supply challenges. The timetable is designed to help households and businesses plan ahead by knowing when water will be available, and officials are urging communities to store and use water sparingly as efforts continue to stabilise supply.


Mahama Equips Ghana Police with 100 Pickups to Boost Operations

President John Dramani Mahama has presented 100 pickup trucks to the Ghana Police Service as part of a broader push to strengthen law enforcement and improve public safety nationwide. The vehicles, described as operational necessities, are expected to enhance patrol capacity, reduce response times and extend police visibility in remote and underserved communities. Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno thanked the President and assured that the vehicles would be deployed effectively.

Kpebu Voices Concerns Over Ken Ofori-Atta’s Reported U.S. Permanent Residency Application

Political commentator Martin Kpebu has raised fresh concerns after reports emerged that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta may have applied for permanent residency in the United States. Kpebu argued that the former minister’s ability to pursue residency status abroad—while in the U.S. for medical treatment and under legal scrutiny—highlights weaknesses in how travel restrictions were handled by the Office of the Special Prosecutor. The revelation has intensified public scrutiny over the handling of Ofori-Atta’s case.


Global Literary Community Mourns as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Son Dies
The family of acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is mourning the loss of one of her twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi, who died at 21 months following a brief illness, officials confirmed. The family issued a statement expressing profound devastation and asking for privacy and prayers during this difficult time. Adichie—whose influential works include Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah—has received condolences from readers and leaders, including Nigerian President Bola Tinubu.


Ofori-Atta’s Lawyers Move to Block Deportation, Seek U.S. Stay Extension

Ken Ofori-Atta

The legal team for former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is challenging U.S. immigration authorities to prevent his deportation after he was detained for overstaying his visa. Lawyers say they have filed a petition seeking an extension of his stay to complete ongoing medical treatment in the United States, arguing that the procedures should continue until a decision is reached.

Asempa FM’s Philip Osei Bonsu Files RTI Over Alleged $214m GoldBod Losses
Media personality Philip Osei Bonsu of Asempa FM has filed a formal Right to Information (RTI) request with the Bank of Ghana, demanding transparency on the controversial Gold-for-Reserve (G4R) programme after an IMF report flagged over $214 million in losses during the first nine months of 2025. Bonsu’s petition seeks detailed figures on annual gold purchases, their values, and profit/loss statements to clarify the performance of the state’s gold-backed economic initiative—a subject at the heart of growing public debate.

Fire Service Officers Identified and Interdicted After Assault on Class FM Journalist
President John Dramani Mahama has confirmed that officers of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) implicated in the assault of Class FM journalist Samuel Addo during coverage of a Kasoa market fire have been identified and interdicted. The President strongly condemned the attack, saying violence against journalists has no place in a democratic society and calling for better training for security personnel to respect press freedom.

Mahama Announces Plan to Replace TV Licence with Media Levy
President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that the government is considering replacing Ghana’s traditional TV licence fee with a broader public media levy to better support funding for public broadcasters like the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC). The proposed reform aims to create a more effective revenue model for sustaining state media operations and is expected to be submitted to Parliament for debate and approval.


Agogo Assembly Member Found Dead in Suspected Suicide
Tragedy has struck the Agogo Apetenyinase Electoral Area in the Asante Akyem North Municipality, Ashanti Region, where Assembly Member Dickson Kwabena Osei was found dead at his home in what authorities suspect to be a suicide. Police say the body was discovered hanging and have taken it to the morgue as investigations continue into the circumstances of his death. Residents and local leaders have expressed profound shock and grief at the sudden loss of the young community leader.

Former Deputy Finance Minister Urges Abandonment of 24-Hour Economy Rhetoric
Kwaku Kwarteng, former Deputy Finance Minister and Obuasi West MP, is calling for the government to drop the 24-hour economy policy from serious national economic discussion, calling it political rhetoric rather than actionable policy. Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show, he argued that focusing on growing businesses, infrastructure, and private-sector support should take precedence over what he described as an undefined and unrealistic economic concept.

ICAG Loses GTEC Recognition Over “Dr” Title Controversy

Dr. Eric Oduro Osae

In a major regulatory move, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has withdrawn recognition of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) after its newly appointed CEO reportedly continued using an academic “Dr” title despite a directive to stop. GTEC found discrepancies and unverifiable credentials related to the doctoral title claimed by CEO Eric Oduro Osae, leading to the derecognition of the professional body until corrective action is taken.


U.S. Immigration Authorities Detain Ken Ofori-Atta
Breaking late yesterday, January 7, 2020! U.S. immigration officials have detained Ghana’s Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, over issues concerning his visa status. The details of his detention are currently being clarified, and the former minister’s lawyers, who confirmed the arrest in a statement, indicate that it could involve routine immigration compliance. Ghanaian officials are reportedly monitoring the situation closely.


Bus Smuggling Over 1,000 Ammunition Intercepted
Authorities in Accra intercepted another bus transporting more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition to northern Ghana. Security services are intensifying efforts to curb illegal arms movement to the conflict-plagued north of the country. The arms also pose a threat to public safety and national security. Investigations are ongoing.


Franklin Cudjoe on Mahama’s Second Term
Franklin Cudjoe, renowned policy analyst, explains that President Mahama’s “second coming” is driven by discipline rather than political maneuvering. He states that financial prudence and administrative integrity are key differentiators in the new government.


“Safe Hands on the Purse”: Again Cudjoe on Mahama’s Governance Style
Cudjoe adds that Mahama’s return to power offers hope for better management of public finances. Citizens can expect more transparent budgeting and prudent fiscal policies, reflecting a more disciplined administration.

Image credit: John Dramani Mahama on Facebook

Ayikoi Otoo Criticizes Akufo-Addo’s Ministerial Appointments
Former diplomat Ayikoi Otoo has described President Akufo-Addo’s recent ministerial appointments as the “worst ever,” calling for a review of political selection processes to ensure efficiency and competence.


GPRTU Promises Transport Fare Review
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has announced that fares for commercial transport will be reviewed once operational costs ease. Commuters can expect adjustments in pricing as fuel and maintenance expenses fluctuate.


Assassination Attempt on Gomoa Wassa Gyasehene
Police are on the hunt for nine suspects after the Gomoa Wassa Gyasehene narrowly escaped an assassination attempt. Investigations are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack.


Asantehene Cautions Economic Managers
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has urged Ghana’s economic managers to remain vigilant despite early signs of stability in the cedi and inflation rates. He stressed the importance of lowering borrowing costs and encouraging private sector-led growth.


Surge in Fake Prophecies
Religious leaders, including Bishop Adongo, are raising alarm over a surge in fake prophecies across Ghana, warning believers to exercise caution when consulting self-proclaimed prophets.


GHS10 Million Defamation Case
A Ghanaian judge has confirmed that a GHS10 million defamation judgment is ready but cannot be delivered immediately due to procedural delays. The case involves high-profile public figures and is closely watched nationwide.


Domestic Crime Shocks the Nation
A man has reportedly killed his girlfriend after she denied him sex, highlighting ongoing concerns about domestic violence and the need for awareness campaigns and legal interventions.


Reflections on Past Leaders
Renowned private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has described the late President Atta Mills as the best president Ghana has ever had, reflecting the ongoing national debate about leadership legacies and public service.


Public Opinion on Mahama’s First Year
Ghanaians shared diverse views on President Mahama’s first year in office, with citizens praising the economic management, transparency, and social programs as key metrics of performance under the current administration. Mahama marked one year in office on Wednesday, January 7, 2025.


This live updates section will be refreshed throughout the day as more breaking news emerges.


Ghana News

Ghana News Updates ( Saturday, Jan 17, 2026): Catch up on the Major Stories

Published

on

Welcome to our rolling news summary from Ghana. These stories reflect the nation’s landscape. Check back for more news updates as the day progresses and new information becomes available.

Ghanaian PhD Students in UK Begin Mass Withdrawals Over Unpaid Scholarships

Ghanaian PhD students in the UK are withdrawing from programs due to unpaid tuition and stipends for nearly two years, facing debt, evictions, and visa curtailments. The PhD Cohort-UK plans demonstrations at the Ghana High Commission in London and has petitioned UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for intervention. A student stated: “Our situation has reached a breaking point… If the fees aren’t paid by the end of this month, my Tier 4 visa will be curtailed, and I will be deported with nothing but debt.”

Prempeh College Students Caught in Violent Fistfight During School Competition

Prempeh College students engaged in a violent fistfight with Cadet Corps members during the 2026 Ashanti Regional Senior High Schools Boys’ Soccer Festival at Baba Yara Sports Stadium, as captured in a video shared on January 16, 2026, by SikaOfficial on and republished GhanaWeb. The incident has sparked public outrage over rising student indiscipline, with calls for arrests as a deterrent.

Ghana Navy Foils Illegal Fuel Bunkering Along Keta-Aflao Coast

The Ghana Navy conducted two raids dismantling illegal fuel bunkering operations in Volta Region, seizing 162 fuel-filled 25-litre gallons and 32 200-litre barrels on January 13, 2026, and intercepting seven modified canoes with 378 empty barrels on January 15, 2026. Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin reaffirmed commitment to maritime security, urging public cooperation to protect national security, marine biodiversity, and the blue economy.

Minister Calls for Inter-Ministerial Force to Fix Accra’s Rush-Hour Transit Crises

Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs Ahmed Ibrahim urged an inter-ministerial alliance with the Ministry of Roads to repair Accra’s intra-roads during a January 16, 2026, stakeholder meeting hosted by the Ministry of Transport. He warned private operators of government intervention if roads remain unmotorable, citing a €1 million grant for Ayalolo bus revival, and stated: “We need to bring my brother, the Road Minister, in so that the intra-roads that are not motorable are fixed.”

Ex-Manager Case: Black Sherif’s Contract Breach Deemed ‘Technical’ as Court Awards GH¢50k Instead of GH¢1.1m Demand

The High Court in Accra ruled Black Sherif’s contract breach with former manager Shadrach Owusu Agyei ‘technical’, awarding GH¢50k in nominal damages and GH¢15k in costs against the plaintiff, dismissing most claims due to lack of evidence, according to MyJoyOnline. Justice Afia Adu-Amankwa noted no proven substantial loss from the breach.

Esther Smith Refutes Claims Pastor Elvis Agyemang Charged for Prayers

Esther Smith’s management denied social media allegations that Pastor Elvis Agyemang of Alpha Hour charged for prayers, calling them false and explaining that no money was requested. They urged verification of facts and praised the pastor’s integrity: “At no point was any amount requested, demanded, or charged for prayers.”

Antoine Semenyo’s £65m Manchester City Switch Sparks Discussions in UK Parliament

Antoine Semenyo’s £65m transfer from AFC Bournemouth to Manchester City sparked UK Parliament discussions on January 15, 2026, with Labour MP Tom Hayes praising his farewell ad in the Bournemouth Echo, linking it to advocacy for raising social media age limits. Hayes called Semenyo “a superstar on the pitch and a gentleman off it.”

Ghana Eager to Change the Narrative at 2026 World Cup

After missing the 2025 AFCON, Ghana’s Black Stars qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, drawn in Group L with Croatia, England, and Panama. Coach Otto Addo aims for redemption with key players like Antoine Semenyo, Mohammed Kudus, and Thomas Partey.

GRA Launches AI-Powered System to Boost Revenue and Curb Customs Fraud

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) launched Publican AI on January 16, 2026, to enhance revenue and curb customs fraud using real-time analytics. Deputy Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem stated:

“The AI tool will help us achieve accurate duty determination,” while Commissioner-General Dr Anthony Sarpong added: “The Publican AI system will give us 100% coverage of assessment.”

Ken Ofori-Atta to Face Deportation – AG Discloses

Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine disclosed that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta faces high deportation risk from the US, with a January 20, 2026, immigration hearing. Ayine stated:

“The possibility is very high and he could either self-deport or face deportation by the immigration judge.”

Check back for more news updates as the day progresses and new information becomes available.

Continue Reading

Ghana News

6-Year-Old U.S. Citizen Stuck in Nigeria Pleads with Trump to Let Adopted Sibling Come Home With Family

Published

on

A heartfelt plea from 6-year-old Harriet Wilson is trending on social media as the young girl appeals directly to President Donald Trump to reverse a U.S. immigration policy that has left her family stranded in Nigeria with their adopted special-needs sibling, Ollie.

In a short video shared widely across social media, Harriet speaks on behalf of the Wilson family, explaining that they legally adopted Ollie nearly a year ago.

“Ollie is my baby. Ollie belongs to our family,” she says, her voice steady and sincere. “When we first came here, Ollie was really sick and small. We loved them and fed them and took care of them… and now they’re a happy toddler.”

The Wilsons have followed every legal step in the international adoption process and have been waiting patiently to bring Ollie home to the United States. However, Presidential Proclamation 10998, effective January 1, 2026, suspended or limited entry and visa issuance for nationals from 39 countries — including Nigeria — and removed previous categorical exemptions for adoption visas (IR-3, IR-4, IH-3, IH-4).

Harriet’s message is clear and deeply emotional:

“Some people say we could go back to America without Ollie, but that would mean leaving them at an orphanage, which we’re not going to do. My parents wouldn’t send me to an orphanage or any of my siblings. And we won’t leave Ollie at an orphanage either. So if Ollie can’t come to America, we can’t come to America. Our family stays together.”

Addressing President Trump directly, she adds:

“I know you make big decisions for our country, so I’m asking you with my whole heart, please change your mind. Please fix this mistake so that our baby can come home with us. Please, President Trump, help our family go home together.”

The Wilson family’s situation has become a focal point in discussions about the human impact of U.S. immigration restrictions on international adoptions, particularly from African nations. Hundreds of other adoptive families are reportedly facing similar barriers, with some children remaining in orphanages indefinitely.

The plea comes amid broader concerns among the African diaspora and global adoption communities about the effects of Proclamation 10998, which targets countries including Nigeria, Ghana, and several others in West and East Africa.

While non-immigrant visas (tourist, business, student) remain largely unaffected, the suspension of immigrant visa categories has created significant uncertainty for families pursuing permanent family reunification or adoption.

The Wilson family continues to call for public support — urging viewers to engage with the video, share their story, and contact U.S. senators and representatives to advocate for the reinstatement of adoption visa exemptions.

Watch Harriet’s full message here: Harriet Wilson’s Plea to President Trump

Continue Reading

Ghana News

Ghana’s Former Finance Minister Ofori-Atta Declared ‘Illegal Alien’ in the U.S., Faces Possible Deportation

Published

on

The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has officially confirmed that former Ghanaian Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is classified as an “illegal alien” in the United States, having overstayed his visa following its revocation in mid-2025.

In a statement released on January 15, 2026, ICE detailed that Ofori-Atta, who remains in custody at the Caroline Detention Facility in Virginia, entered the U.S. on a temporary visa that expired, and he failed to depart or regularize his status.

The agency described him as an “illegal alien” under U.S. immigration law, a designation that significantly complicates his legal position amid Ghana’s ongoing extradition request, reports say.

Ofori-Atta, who served as Finance Minister from 2017 to 2024 under former President Nana Akufo-Addo, faces 78 criminal charges in Ghana, including allegations of corruption, financial misconduct, and procurement irregularities tied to the Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) contract and payments for the National Cathedral project.

Ghana formally submitted its extradition request to the U.S. Department of Justice on December 10, 2025.

The ICE confirmation adds new pressure to the case, which has already sparked intense diplomatic engagement between Accra and Washington. Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa recently announced that U.S. authorities assured Ghana they would not block extradition proceedings for Ofori-Atta or fugitive former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe Attionu, signaling potential cooperation despite the immigration classification.

Legal experts note that the “illegal alien” status could accelerate removal proceedings, though Ofori-Atta’s defense team has filed a petition for adjustment of status and is challenging the detention.

A U.S. immigration court hearing is scheduled for January 20, 2026, where his case will be further reviewed.

The development continues to draw widespread attention in Ghana, fueling debates on accountability for public officials, the strength of bilateral relations, and the intersection of immigration enforcement with international justice.

Ofori-Atta’s case remains a major test of Ghana–U.S. diplomatic and law-enforcement ties under the Mahama administration’s anti-corruption and accountability drive.

Continue Reading

Trending