Lawyer for Ghanaian evangelist and controversial figure Evangelist Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, widely known as Nana Agradaa, has described her 15-year prison sentence as a grave miscarriage of justice.
Speaking to Citi Eyewitness News shortly after the verdict was delivered by Her Honour Evelyn Asamoah at Accra Circuit Court 10 on Thursday, July 3, Richard Asare Baffour, lead counsel for Agradaa, said the legal team was blindsided by the ruling.
“We were not expecting this at all,” Baffour said. “In summary, the judgment delivered by the court today is nothing but a travesty of justice. We say so not because the decision did not go our way, but because we are deeply concerned about the reasoning of the court.”
Nana Agradaa was convicted on two counts of defrauding by false pretenses and one count of charlatanic advertisement, leading to a combined 15-year custodial sentence. The fraud charges carry concurrent sentences, and she was fined GH¢300 for the advertisement-related offence. Failure to pay the fine would attract an additional 30 days of imprisonment.
During sentencing, ASP Emmanuel Haligah, representing the prosecution, emphasized Agradaa’s repeated offenses and her prior conviction in 2021, arguing that the harsh sentence was necessary to deter fraudulent spiritual practices and protect vulnerable Ghanaians from exploitation.
However, Baffour had pleaded for leniency, outlining Agradaa’s personal circumstances and contributions to her family. He cited that the evangelist is a mother of five, with her eldest child currently enrolled in law school and her youngest being just three years old. He also pointed to her remorseful demeanor, good conduct throughout the legal process, and the prolonged nature of the trial as reasons for a non-custodial sentence.
The court, however, remained unconvinced, noting the serious nature of the crimes and the need to uphold public trust in legal and spiritual institutions.
Agradaa’s sentencing marks one of the most high-profile legal outcomes involving spiritual fraud in Ghana in recent years. She had previously been in the news for her “sika gari” money-doubling scheme, which had been widely condemned and led to her first conviction.
The case has reignited national debate over fraudulent religious practices, the responsibility of spiritual leaders, and public accountability.
Baffour confirmed the legal team will explore avenues for appeal, stating:
“We’re studying the judgment carefully and we will take the appropriate legal steps. Our client remains hopeful.”
Meanwhile, public opinion remains divided. While some believe the sentence is a necessary precedent, others view it as excessive, considering her role as a caregiver and public figure.
The case serves as a stern warning from the judiciary about the legal consequences of spiritual manipulation and deception in Ghana.
