Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has publicly disputed reports characterizing the death of an 18-year-old Ghanaian student in Latvia as a suicide. The Minister stated there is evidence suggesting foul play and that the student was subjected to “inhumane treatment.”
Investigation Launched
The case involves Nana Agyei Oduru Ahyia, a first-year Electrical Engineering (Adaptronic) student at Riga Technical University, who gained admission in July 2024. He reportedly died on June 4, 2025, after falling from the sixth floor of his apartment on Baznīcas Street in Riga, Latvia. Prior to his death, on June 1, 2025, Ahyia reportedly sent a voice note to family members claiming he had been poisoned.
According to Ablakwa, diplomats from Ghana’s Berlin mission have concluded that the death was not a suicide. He emphasized that Ghana will pursue justice in the matter, stating, “We have served notice that we demand justice, we are not going to let that slide, and that nobody harms a Ghanaian life and gets away with it. Nobody.”
Duty to Protect Citizens
Ablakwa framed the pursuit of justice as a fundamental responsibility of his office, arguing that defending the lives and dignity of Ghanaian citizens abroad is not optional. He warned that a failure to vigorously defend citizens overseas would send a dangerous message. He stated, “If you cannot stand up for them, demand that their dignity be respected, then you have no business serving in this ministry as Minister for Foreign Affairs.”
The family of Nana Agyei Oduru Ahyia has expressed suspicion of a cover-up, citing unsuccessful attempts to contact Latvian police and the belief that Latvian nationals may be involved. The Foreign Affairs Ministry is currently probing the death.
Frequently Asked Questions
What has the Ghanaian government said about the death of Nana Agyei Oduru Ahyia?
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has firmly rejected claims that the death was a suicide and stated there is evidence of foul play and inhumane treatment.
Where was Nana Agyei Oduru Ahyia studying?
Nana Agyei Oduru Ahyia was a first-year Electrical Engineering (Adaptronic) student at Riga Technical University in Latvia.
What concerns has the family raised regarding the investigation?
The family has expressed suspicion of a possible cover-up, citing unsuccessful attempts to contact Latvian police and the belief that Latvian nationals may be involved.
As the investigation proceeds, it remains to be seen what further evidence will emerge and whether Ghanaian authorities will be able to secure a thorough and transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Nana Agyei Oduru Ahyia’s death.
