Abuja Doctor Arraigned for IVF Fraud and Alleged Sale of Couple's Embryos
The Federal Government has formally charged a 54-year-old medical practitioner based in Abuja, John Abebe, before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Jabi. The charges stem from serious allegations of fraudulent activities and criminal conspiracy, marking a significant legal case in Nigeria's healthcare sector.
Details of the Charges and Allegations
Abebe, who also serves as a pastor at the Living Faith Church in Durumi, Abuja, was arraigned on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. He appeared in court alongside his hospital, Joje Abebe Hospital Limited, facing three counts that include fraud, criminal conspiracy, unlawful disclosure of confidential medical records, and the alleged sale of a couple's embryos.
Prosecutors accuse Abebe of unlawfully releasing the confidential medical records of Mrs. Mary Manga and her husband to the public without their consent. This action is said to violate Section 29 of the National Health Act 2014, which safeguards patient privacy and medical confidentiality.
Fraudulent Activities and Financial Deception
In addition to the breach of confidentiality, the prosecution claims that between January and May 2025, Abebe, described as a Chief Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, deceived and defrauded the couple of N19 million. He allegedly presented himself as a specialist in In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), collecting the money for treatment but converting it to personal use. This offence falls under Section 1 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006.
Perhaps the most shocking allegation is that Abebe sold the couple's fully developed embryos to other patients. If proven, this could become one of the most scandalous fertility-related cases in Nigeria's recent history, raising serious ethical and legal concerns about medical practices in the country.
Court Proceedings and Bail Conditions
When the charges were read in court, both Abebe and Joje Abebe Hospital Limited pleaded not guilty. His counsel, Marvin Omorogbe, applied for bail, a request that was not opposed by the prosecuting counsel, Joseph Wada.
Consequently, Justice A. A. Fashola granted Abebe bail in the amount of N5 million. The bail conditions require a reliable surety in like sum, who must be a professional working with a responsible and verifiable organisation. The case has been adjourned to April 2, 2026, for the commencement of trial, setting the stage for a closely watched legal battle.
This case highlights critical issues in medical ethics, patient trust, and regulatory enforcement within Nigeria's healthcare system. It underscores the need for stringent oversight to prevent such alleged abuses, particularly in sensitive areas like fertility treatments where vulnerable patients place immense faith in medical professionals.
