The Amasaman High Court has explained the reasons the lengthy 15-year prison term originally handed to controversial evangelist Nana Agradaa was drastically cut down to 12 calendar months (one year). The decision came on Thursday, February 5, 2026, after the court reviewed her appeal against both the conviction and the sentence imposed by the Accra Circuit Court last year.
Nana Agradaa, whose real name is Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, was convicted in July 2025 on charges of charlatanic advertisement and defrauding by false pretence. The original sentence included hard labour for 15 years and sparked significant discussion nationally because many felt the punishment was too severe for the offences.
In its ruling on the appeal, the High Court upheld the conviction itself but gave reasons for reducing the punishment. The judge said that while Agradaa’s actions did warrant a custodial sentence — meaning she should serve time in prison — the length and harshness of the original 15-year term were disproportionate to the circumstances of the offence. This meant that although punishment was appropriate, the court believed the initial sentence was excessive and more than what the law intended for similar cases.
The judge also noted that the High Court has the legal authority to adjust sentences on appeal when they are found to go beyond reasonable limits. Because of this, the sentence was varied to one year in prison, counting from the date of the conviction on July 3, 2025.
The reduction has brought reactions from different quarters, including supporters and family members of Agradaa, who have welcomed the lighter term. However, her conviction still stands, and she is expected to serve the adjusted sentence unless further legal action is taken.
