Court convicts Agradaa for defrauding by false pretences

Background 

Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Nana Agradaa, a self-styled evangelist and former fetish priestess, has been convicted by the Accra Circuit Court. The charges against her include charlatanic advertisement and defrauding by false pretences.

Nature of the offence

The conviction stems from her promotion of a deceptive money-doubling scheme. This scheme was advertised to members of the Godsway International Heaven Church, luring them to surrender money during an all-night service at her ministry, located in Weija, Accra.

Court proceedings and next steps

Presiding Judge Evelyn Asamoah has ordered a pregnancy test to be conducted on Asiedua prior to sentencing. The final sentence will be delivered based on the outcome of this test.

Agradaa jailed 15 years

Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, widely known as Nana Agradaa, a former traditional priestess turned evangelist, has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Circuit Court in Accra.

Conviction for fraud and false advertising

The court found Agradaa guilty of charlatanic advertisement and obtaining money by false pretenses. The charges stemmed from a 2022 televised broadcast in which she falsely claimed to possess spiritual powers capable of doubling money.

Victims deceived by false promises

During the broadcast, Agradaa convinced many individuals to hand over large sums of money, lured by the promise of miraculous financial returns. These promises never materialized, leaving many defrauded.

Court procedure and sentencing

Before delivering the sentence, the court ordered a mandatory pregnancy test. The results confirmed that Agradaa was not pregnant, allowing sentencing to proceed without delay.

Public reaction and legal impact

The verdict has sparked significant public response. Many have applauded the ruling as a victory for justice and a warning to those engaging in fraudulent spiritual or religious schemes. The case is seen as a landmark in the crackdown on deceptive religious practices in Ghana.