An Accra High Court has dismissed an application by Ghanaian socialite Fredrick Kumi, widely known as Abu Trica, to halt his extradition to the United States, where he is wanted over an alleged $8 million romance fraud scheme.
Kumi’s legal team had filed a certiorari application on May 19, 2026, asking the High Court to overturn a previous decision by the Gbese District Court that approved his extradition to face criminal charges in the US.
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However, the High Court rejected the application on Thursday, effectively affirming the lower court’s ruling and clearing another hurdle in the extradition process.
Lawyer Reacts to Court Decision
Abu Trica’s lawyer, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, confirmed the outcome on Thursday, July 2, describing the proceedings as having been expedited.
Speaking through a Facebook post while away on official duties, Barker-Vormawor wrote: “I just heard that the case of Abu Trica has been fast-tracked and a judge has just ordered his extradition. Hmmm. FBI 1 – Abu 1. I guess this issue goes to the Supreme Court.”
Supreme Court Challenge Expected
The defence has indicated it intends to contest the High Court’s decision before Ghana’s Supreme Court, which represents the final stage of the country’s judicial process.
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The legal team is expected to file another certiorari application, asking the apex court to set aside the extradition order issued by the lower courts.
Although filing an appeal does not automatically suspend the extradition process, it is likely to delay any immediate transfer by keeping the matter before the courts. During that period, Abu Trica is expected to remain in Ghana under his existing GH¢30 million bail conditions.
What Happens If the Supreme Court Rejects the Appeal?
If the Supreme Court also rules against him, the judicial phase of the case will come to an end.
In accordance with Ghana’s Extradition Act, 1960 (Act 22), the case will then be forwarded to the Attorney-General, who has the authority to issue a surrender warrant authorising the extradition.
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Once that warrant is signed, Ghanaian authorities would formally hand Abu Trica over to US law enforcement officials for transfer to the United States.
Charges Awaiting Him in the US
If extradited, Abu Trica is expected to appear before the US federal court in the Northern District of Ohio.
He is facing charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering in connection with the alleged romance scam. Under US law, each wire fraud offence carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years if a conviction is secured.