Mohammed Zakou, a known activist of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has been granted bail by the Achimota Circuit Court following his arrest for allegedly spreading false news concerning the health of Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.
The controversy stems from a Facebook post made by Zakou on Saturday, April 12, which read, “Rest Well Her Excellency,” accompanied by crying emojis.
At a time when the Vice President’s health had been confirmed as delicate by government communications, the post quickly sparked public confusion and concern, with many interpreting it as a premature announcement of her death.
This led to Zakou’s immediate arrest by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), where he was subsequently charged with communicating false information.
During preliminary investigations, the NIB’s prosecuting officer stated that Zakou admitted to making the post but insisted that his message was misunderstood.
According to the prosecutor, Zakou explained that “the post was intended as a gesture of goodwill” and not to mislead the public or cause panic.
On Monday, April 14, Zakou appeared before the Achimota Circuit Court.
His legal team, led by prominent lawyer Gary Nimako Marfo, pleaded for bail, arguing that their client had cooperated fully with investigators and posed no flight risk.
The state prosecution did not oppose the bail request but urged the court to impose conditions that would ensure the accused’s continued availability throughout the legal proceedings.
Presiding over the matter, the judge granted Zakou bail in the amount of GH¢100,000, with two sureties. In addition, he is required to report to the investigating officer once a week.
The court adjourned the case to May 12, 2025, for a case management conference, where both parties are expected to outline their evidence and arguments before the trial begins in full.
–BY Daniel Bampoe
