A federal court in Nevada has certified the extradition of Sedina Christine Tamakloe-Attionu, a former head of Microfinance and Small Loans Centre, to Ghana, where she faces enforcement of a criminal sentence tied to alleged financial misconduct.

In a ruling by the United States District Court, the court found it had jurisdiction over both the extradition proceedings and the defendant, and affirmed that the extradition treaty between the U.S. and Ghana remains in force. It also determined that the individual in custody is the same person sought by Ghanaian authorities and that the supporting documents submitted were properly certified.

The court concluded there is probable cause to believe Ms. Tamakloe-Attionu committed the offenses cited in Ghana’s request. It ordered her to remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending a final decision by the U.S. Secretary of State on whether to surrender her to Ghanaian authorities.

Ms. Tamakloe-Attionu was convicted in Ghana in April 2024 and sentenced to 10 years in prison with hard labor on charges including causing financial loss to the state, stealing, conspiracy, money laundering and procurement violations. According to court records, she left Ghana during the trial after receiving permission to travel abroad for medical reasons and did not return.

Her extradition represents a significant step in efforts by Ghanaian authorities to enforce the judgment and pursue accountability in a case that has drawn public scrutiny over the management of state-backed lending programs.

Source:TheDotNews