Evangelist Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, popularly known as Nana Okomfo Agradaa, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison by an Accra Circuit Court after being found guilty of defrauding members of the public through a money-doubling scheme.
The court also imposed a GH¢300 fine, warning that failure to pay would result in an additional 30 days of imprisonment.
However as the jail term was announced she broke into uncontrollable tears that no one venture to sympathize.
The charges stem from Agradaa’s promotion of what the court described as a “charlatanic advertisement,” in which she promised to multiply money for individuals who brought cash to her.
Several people who fell victim to the scheme reported that she failed to fulfill these promises after collecting their money.
The prosecution successfully argued that Agradaa used her public platform to deceive unsuspecting citizens by falsely claiming to possess spiritual powers that could generate financial returns.
Following the sentencing, Agradaa’s legal team expressed strong disagreement with the court’s decision.
Her lawyers described the 15-year term as excessive and unjust, stating that the court’s ruling was more about satisfying public outcry than delivering fair justice.
They emphasized that the amount in question—GH¢540—was relatively small, questioning the proportionality of the punishment in relation to the alleged financial loss.
Her legal counsel also highlighted Agradaa’s role as a mother of five and noted that she demonstrated remorse throughout the trial. They suggested that these mitigating factors were not adequately considered during sentencing.
Plans to appeal the decision have already been announced, with her legal team optimistic that a higher court will either overturn the conviction or significantly reduce the sentence.
The case has attracted significant public interest and divided opinion across the country. While many argue that Agradaa’s actions exploited vulnerable individuals and that the punishment sends a strong message against fraudulent religious practices, others believe the penalty is overly harsh for the sum involved.
Public figures, including journalist and lawyer Afia Pokua, have suggested that the appeal could succeed if her defense can prove that the original verdict was flawed or unduly influenced by societal pressure.
As Agradaa begins her prison term, the legal process is far from over. The outcome of her appeal will likely have broader implications for similar cases in Ghana’s legal and religious landscape.
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