Pastor Arraigned Over Alleged Embryo Sale and N19 Million IVF Fraud in Abuja Court
In a high-profile case that has captured national attention, Pastor John Onuwabhagbe Abebe, a medical practitioner and pastor at Living Faith Church, was arraigned before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Jabi, Abuja, on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The charges against him include fraud, criminal conspiracy, and the unlawful sale of a couple's embryos, marking one of the most sensational fertility-related allegations in recent Nigerian history.
Details of the Charges and Allegations
Pastor Abebe, who operates Joje Abebe Hospital Limited, faced three counts read before Hon. Justice A. A. Fashola. Prosecutors alleged that he unlawfully released confidential medical records of a married couple, Mrs. Mary Manga and her husband, to the public without their consent. This action is said to contravene Section 29 of the National Health Act 2014, which protects patient privacy and medical confidentiality.
The first count of the charge states: "While in custody of Mr & Mrs Mary Manga’s medical records concerning their health welfare and their reproductive status, without their authorisation or consent, you abused your office and released their secret medical record to members of the public, causing the victims trauma, contrary to section 29 of the National Health Act, 2014."
Additionally, the second and third counts detail claims that between January and May 2025, Pastor Abebe, described as a chief consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, collected N19 million from the couple for In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment. Prosecutors assert he was not qualified to provide such services and allegedly deceived the couple by pretending to be a specialist. It is further alleged that he converted the funds and some of their embryos for personal use, including selling the embryos to other patients without consent.
Court Proceedings and Bail Decision
When the charges were read in court, Pastor Abebe and his hospital pleaded not guilty. His lawyer, Barrister Marvin Omorogbe, applied for bail, which was not opposed by the prosecuting counsel, Barrister Joseph Wada. Justice Fashola granted Pastor Abebe bail set at N5 million, with specific conditions attached.
The bail requires a reliable surety of equal value who must be a professional employed by a responsible and verifiable organisation. This decision allows Pastor Abebe to remain free while the case proceeds, ensuring his right to a fair trial. The case has been adjourned to 2 April 2026 for trial, where further evidence and testimonies will be presented.
Broader Implications and Public Reaction
This case has sparked widespread debate and concern across Nigeria, raising critical questions about medical ethics, patient confidentiality, and the legal boundaries of reproductive services. The allegations highlight vulnerabilities in the healthcare system, particularly in sensitive areas like fertility treatments, where trust between patients and practitioners is paramount.
Public attention has been drawn to the need for stricter regulations and oversight in medical practices, especially those involving advanced procedures like IVF. The emotional and financial impact on the affected couple, who sought help for fertility issues only to face alleged betrayal, underscores the human cost of such misconduct.
As the trial date approaches, stakeholders in the medical, legal, and religious communities are closely monitoring developments. The outcome could set precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future, potentially leading to reforms in medical governance and accountability.
In a related context, this case follows other incidents of alleged fraud involving religious figures, such as the recent arrest of six men in Ondo state for posing as pastors and staging fake miracles. These events collectively point to ongoing challenges in ensuring integrity and transparency in both medical and spiritual sectors in Nigeria.
