The Office of the President has swiftly responded to circulating media reports suggesting that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo granted presidential pardon to eight individuals.

In an official statement, the presidency has categorically refuted these claims, urging the public to disregard the false reports.

“No pardon has been granted,” the statement reads, advising that only official communications from the presidency should be considered credible.

READ ALSO: 9 Individuals Granted Presidential Pardon: A Look at Their Time Behind Bars

This clarification comes following viral reports earlier today that the CEO of Capital Bank, William Ato Essien, and seven other individuals incarcerated for various crimes have been granted amnesty.

Essien, who was sentenced to 15 years in prison in December 2023 for his role in the collapse of the bank, has faced not only legal repercussions but also serious financial setbacks.

As part of the restitution process, Essien was ordered to pay GHS 90 million, but despite making partial payments, he was unable to settle the remaining balance, leading to his imprisonment.

However, the decision to grant him a pardon was made by outgoing President Akufo-Addo, with significant concern given Essien’s ongoing health struggles.

The former CEO has been battling severe, life-threatening medical conditions and has undergone multiple surgeries in recent times.

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