By Grace Zigah
In a dramatic turn of events, controversial evangelist and former fetish priestess, Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, popularly known as Nana Agradaa, has had her 15-year prison sentence reduced to 12 months following her unmasked appearance at the Amasaman High Court on February 5, 2026.
The court ruled that the original sentence was harsh and excessive, though it affirmed her conviction for charlatanic advertisement and defrauding by false pretences.
The revised sentence will take effect retroactively from her conviction date, July 3, 2025, ensuring that Agradaa will serve a total of one year in prison.
Nana Agradaa, who has been incarcerated at Nsawam Female Prison, appeared at the High Court without her usual face covering, drawing the attention of both journalists and the public.
Witnesses reported that she looked emotional and visibly depressed, being escorted into the courtroom by armed female prison officers.
This marked a significant departure from her previous appearances, where her face was always concealed, sparking speculation on her state of mind and the possible outcome of the appeal.
Social media users quickly reacted to footage of her unmasked appearance, expressing concern over her emotional state and well-being.
The televangelist’s legal troubles stemmed from her activities as the founder of Heaven Way International Ministries, where she allegedly promised to double congregants’ money during all-night prayer services.
The prosecution presented evidence of her public advertisements on television and social media, showing that over 1,000 attendees handed her substantial sums of money, which were never returned.
These acts formed the basis for the 15-year custodial sentence with hard labour, initially handed down in July 2025—a ruling that drew nationwide debate and criticism for its severity.
During her appeal, Agradaa’s legal team, led by Richard Asare Baffour, argued that the original trial was improperly conducted, that the prosecution failed to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, and that the sentence imposed was excessive.
Previous hearings had been delayed due to technical issues with electronic exhibits and the Attorney-General’s Office not complying with court directives, leading to the February 5 ruling date.
Earlier in her legal saga, Agradaa had also been involved in a defamation case with gospel musician Empress Gifty, which was amicably settled for GH¢100,000, including a public apology.
That settlement, finalized in January 2026, helped clear part of her legal disputes and brought some resolution to previous controversies surrounding her ministry.
