By Daniel Amugi , Accra
The courtroom has spoken. Evangelist Patricia Asiedua, widely known as Nana Agradaa, now faces 15 years behind bars for defrauding the public by false pretence and engaging in charlatanic advertisement. But for the many victims who handed over their life savings in hopes of “miracle money,” the question remains: Can justice go beyond punishment and deliver restitution?
The answer lies in the power of civil litigation.
While the criminal conviction brings a sense of moral vindication, it does not automatically guarantee financial compensation for those defrauded. Criminal courts are designed to punish wrongdoing and protect the public—not to resolve personal financial losses. That’s where civil lawsuits come in.
Victims of Agradaa’s scheme may still have a legal path forward. By filing a civil suit for damages, they can seek to recover the money they lost. The burden of proof in civil court is lower than in criminal court—plaintiffs must show that it is more likely than not that they were defrauded. Given that a criminal court has already found Agradaa guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, this precedent could significantly strengthen any civil claims brought against her.
However, there are challenges. Agradaa’s assets—if any remain—would need to be identified, frozen, and potentially liquidated to satisfy any civil judgment. If she has transferred wealth to third parties or hidden it under other names, tracing and recovering those funds could become a complex legal battle. Still, with coordinated legal action and the support of experienced attorneys, it is not impossible.
There is also precedent for civil action against Agradaa. In a separate case, gospel musician Empress Gifty successfully defended a defamation suit and was awarded legal costs after Agradaa’s attempt to dismiss the case was rejected by the Tema High Court . This shows that the courts are willing to hold her accountable beyond the criminal realm.
For victims, the road to restitution may be long—but it is not closed. Filing a civil suit sends a powerful message: that deception, no matter how spiritual its disguise, will not be tolerated. It also offers a chance to reclaim not just money, but dignity.
Legal experts and human rights advocates should rally behind these victims, offering pro bono support and helping them navigate the legal system. And the state, having secured a conviction, should not turn its back now. Justice is not complete until those who were harmed are made whole.
The story of Nana Agradaa is not just about one woman’s fall from grace. It is about the vulnerability of people in search of hope—and the responsibility of society to protect them. The law has spoken. Now it must act.
