By: Grace Zigah
The legal team of embattled evangelist and former traditional priestess, Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Nana Agradaa or “Noko Beautiful,” is preparing to challenge what they describe as an “excessive” 15-year jail sentence handed down by an Accra Circuit Court.
Her lead counsel has confirmed plans to initiate legal processes as early as Monday to either secure her release or obtain a significant reduction in the sentence.
Agradaa was convicted on July 3, 2025, on multiple counts of defrauding by false pretence and charlatanic advertisement, following her controversial money-doubling religious broadcasts in 2022.
According to court records, Agradaa claimed on her Today-TV channel and during a service at her Heaven Way Champion International Ministry in Weija, Accra, that she had the power to multiply cash offerings.
Several individuals, acting on her instructions, attended the service and handed over sums of money—none of which was ever returned.
However, Agradaa’s lawyer is questioning the severity of the punishment, arguing that the amount cited in the case does not warrant such a lengthy jail term.
“Even the amount involved is just GH¢540,” he told reporters outside the courtroom.
“If you are alleged to have defrauded someone of GH¢540 and get sentenced for 15 years, I am very clear in my mind that Agradaa has been jailed because of who she is, not because of what she’s alleged to have done.”
The lawyer’s remarks suggest that the defence believes Agradaa’s public image and past controversies may have influenced the court’s judgment.
He stated unequivocally that the legal team would be pursuing avenues to challenge the ruling, including the possibility of filing an appeal or seeking a stay of execution.
Under Ghanaian law, Agradaa has the right to appeal the verdict.
However, unless a stay of execution is granted, she will remain in custody while the appeal is being considered—a process that could take several months or even years.
The legal team is expected to file an appeal and possibly a motion for bail pending appeal early next week.
If successful, such a move could see Agradaa temporarily freed while the higher courts re-examine the case.
Meanwhile, legal analysts are divided over the matter. While some argue that the sentence serves as a strong deterrent against religious fraud and spiritual exploitation, others believe the court should have exercised discretion in proportion to the amount of money involved.
The case has rekindled national debates on fake religious practices and the use of the media to manipulate vulnerable citizens.
Agradaa, who transitioned from a traditional priestess to a self-proclaimed Christian evangelist, has long been a polarizing figure in Ghana’s religious and social circles.
