Controversial religious figure Patricia Asiedua, known as Nana Agradaa, received a 15-year prison sentence with hard labor on July 4, 2025, following convictions on three fraud charges.
An Accra High Court found her guilty of defrauding by false pretence and charlatanic advertisement under Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act.
Court records show Agradaa deceived victims through a “money doubling” scheme promising supernatural financial returns. The Criminal Offences Act defines defrauding by false pretence as intentional deception causing financial loss, while charlatanic advertisement prohibits using spiritual claims for fraudulent gain. Maximum penalties reach 25 years imprisonment.
The verdict has sparked national debate about accountability across sectors. Social activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor publicly questioned whether politicians could face similar scrutiny for knowingly unfulfillable campaign promises. Market trader responses collected by journalists revealed divided perspectives, with some supporting the sentence as a scam deterrent while others cited perceived leniency toward political corruption.
Legal practitioner Christian Malm Hesse confirmed Agradaa’s defense team may appeal the sentence duration. Judicial records indicate appeals must demonstrate procedural errors or disproportionate sentencing relative to case specifics.
This case highlights ongoing discussions about consistent application of fraud laws. Financial regulatory authorities have historically focused on licensed institutions, while media regulators face challenges monitoring spiritual content claims. The judgment coincides with broader anti-corruption efforts under President Mahama’s administration.
