Ghana Embassy in Abidjan visits detained citizens, promises consular and legal support

The Ghana Embassy in Abidjan recently visited four Ghanaian citizens detained at the Abidjan Penitentiary Pole Prison in Côte d'Ivoire, to check on their well-being and offer consular assistance. Led by Ambassador Alhassan Abu, the delegation met with the detainees to evaluate their health, treatment by prison officials and other concerns, while providing emotional support.

The Embassy's visit underscored their dedication to safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaians in Côte d'Ivoire, irrespective of their situations. The detainees were informed that the mission committed to continue engaging with them to ensure they didn't feel abandoned while living abroad.

During the visit, detainees expressed worries about language barriers and requested basic supplies like rice, cooking oil, toiletries, and other necessities. Ambassador Abu promised to address these issues. He also mentioned that the Embassy was engaging a lawyer to help detainees dealing with minor cases and those on remand. The delegation found the detainees in good spirits and physically healthy, so they donated water, bread, and other food items to the inmates.

The Ambassador urged the detainees to follow prison rules, support each other, and stay positive despite their challenges. He informed them about President John Dramani Mahama's Reset Agenda and advised them to seize opportunities in Ghana to rebuild their lives after release. Ambassador Abu assured the detainees that the Embassy would continue visiting them and addressing their concerns.

The Embassy's visit is part of their ongoing consular engagement with Ghanaians in Côte d'Ivoire, particularly those in detention. The mission plans to follow up on the concerns raised during the visit and consider further assistance, including legal support for eligible detainees. The detainees' identities were not disclosed in the Embassy's statement.