Accra: After years of a protracted legal battle that spanned the High Court, Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court, the trial involving Dr. Stephen Opuni and Alhaji Seidu Agongo has concluded. 'This is triumph for truth in a generation,' Alhaji Agongo said after walking out of the courtroom, wearing a cautious smile.
According to Ghana News Agency, on January 28, 2025, the Attorney-General withdrew all charges against Dr. Opuni and Alhaji Agongo. Ms. Enam Loh Mensah, State Attorney, informed the Court, presided over by Justice Aboagye Tandoh, that the Attorney-General had instructed the withdrawal of charges against the duo. In compliance with these instructions, the State filed a notice of withdrawal, leading to the acquittal and discharge of both individuals.
Facing 27 charges, including defrauding by false pretences, causing financial loss to the State, money laundering, and corruption by a public officer in violation of the Public Procurement Act, both Dr. Opuni and Mr. Agongo had consistently pleaded not guilty. They were each on a GHS300,000.00 self-recognizance bail during the trial.
Alhaji Agongo expressed immense relief, describing the legal ordeal as an unquantifiable burden. For nearly eight years, he spent the majority of his weekdays attending court sessions. Reflecting on the experience, he expressed gratitude to Allah and acknowledged the end of a challenging chapter of his life.
He recounted how his once esteemed reputation, built on business success and philanthropy, was tarnished by the accusations. The charges, which included fraud, deception, money laundering, and financial impropriety, felt less like justice and more like a personal vendetta against him.
Alhaji Agongo criticized the courtroom proceedings, alleging that they became a stage for injustice, while the media played a role in the calculated dismantling of his character and business reputation. His only 'crime,' he stated, was supplying an effective agrochemical, lithovit liquid fertiliser, that significantly benefited cocoa farmers and the Ghana Cocoa Board.
Numerous farmers testified in his defense, passionately sharing how the fertilizer improved their lives, allowing them to achieve dreams they once thought impossible. The testimony highlighted increased yields that enabled farmers to build homes, purchase cars, and provide better education for their children.
Despite these exculpatory testimonies, Agongo claimed they were ignored as adversaries pursued his downfall. Beyond the courtroom, his bank, Heritage Bank Limited, collapsed, and his assets were frozen, hindering his business operations. The seizure of his passport further restricted his freedom and international business opportunities.
Agongo alleged that government-sponsored propaganda tarnished his reputation, driving away potential partners and clients. Despite the pressure, he remained resilient, fighting to clear his name and uphold his integrity.
Alhaji Agongo concluded by asserting that the legal proceedings seemed orchestrated to ensure his downfall, yet the truth persisted. Choosing to rise above the adversity, he remained a beacon of hope and support for others.
