The Achimota Circuit Court has granted bail to Mohammed Zakou, an activist of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who was arrested for allegedly spreading false information regarding the health of Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.
Zakou was apprehended on Saturday, April 12, following a Facebook post in which he wrote, “Rest Well Her Excellency”, accompanied by crying emojis.
The post was widely interpreted as a false announcement of the Vice President’s death. Government communication had earlier confirmed that she was unwell but recovering.
Following his arrest, Zakou was charged with communicating false news. A prosecutor from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) informed the court that the accused admitted to making the post, but insisted it was meant as a goodwill gesture toward the Vice President.
Zakou appeared before the Achimota Circuit Court on Monday, April 14, where his legal counsel, led by lawyer Gary Nimako Marfo, petitioned the court for bail.
While the state did not oppose the application, prosecutors requested conditions that would ensure the accused remains available for trial. The court granted bail in the sum of GHC 100,000 with two sureties and directed Zakou to report to the investigator weekly.
The case has been adjourned to May 12, 2025, for a case management conference.