The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a firm rebuttal against a viral social media video containing what it describes as “false, misleading, and unfounded assertions” regarding the government’s efforts to seek justice for Nana Agyei Ahyia. The late Ghanaian student died under unusual circumstances while studying at Riga Technical University in Latvia.
In a formal statement released on February 2, 2026, the Ministry addressed allegations made by a woman claiming to be the deceased’s sister. These claims suggested that the family was required to make payments for travel, that government officials traveled to Latvia without family representation, and that a “fake” airline ticket was issued to the mother of the deceased.
The Ministry categorically rejected any claims of financial impropriety, clarifying that the Government of Ghana is fully bearing the costs of all travel arrangements.
“The Ministry states emphatically that it has remained in constant and transparent engagement with the family. At no time has the Ministry, or any government official acting on its behalf, demanded or received any form of payment from the family,” the statement read.
The Ministry further explained that it has been working to facilitate the travel of two nominated family members and a pathologist to Riga. While travel was initially intended for late January, delays occurred due to the family’s failure to present all requisite documentation at their visa appointments, as well as ongoing processing times at the relevant Embassy.
Addressing the confusion regarding the mother’s arrival at the airport, the Ministry noted that she was formally notified that travel could not proceed because the visas had not yet been issued. Despite this, she reportedly proceeded to the airport in the company of bloggers.
The Ministry clarified that the document in her possession was “merely an itinerary generated exclusively to support the visa application process,” and was not a confirmed airline ticket. Officials had expressly informed her that travel was impossible without her passport, which remained in the custody of the Embassy at the time.
The Ministry expressed deep regret over the “deliberate distortion of facts,” noting that such misinformation detracts from the collective effort to establish the truth behind the student’s tragic death. The statement concluded by reaffirming the government’s dedication to its citizens abroad.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates its unwavering commitment to the protection and welfare of Ghanaians abroad and to the pursuit of justice for the late Nana Agyei Ahyia.”
