A pastor at Living Faith Church (Winners’ Chapel), Durumi, Abuja, and Chief Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Dr. John Abebe, has been taken to court over allegations of N19 million fraud and the unlawful sale of a couple’s embryos. The case was filed at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by the Federal Government.
Dr. Abebe is facing a criminal charge that includes allegations of fraud, criminal conspiracy, unlawful disclosure of confidential medical records, and the illegal sale of embryos belonging to a couple undergoing fertility treatment. The suit was instituted by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
The case, marked CV/005/26, lists Dr. Abebe and his hospital, Joje Abebe Fertility Centre Limited, as defendants. Prosecutors have filed a three-count charge detailing the alleged offences.
According to the charge, Dr. Abebe unlawfully disclosed the confidential medical records of Mrs. Mary Manga without her consent. The prosecution argues that this action contravenes Section 29 of the National Health Act, 2014, which protects the privacy and confidentiality of patients’ medical information.
The Federal Government further alleges that between January and May 2025, Dr. Abebe obtained N19 million from the couple. The money was reportedly collected under the representation that he was providing specialized In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) services.
Prosecutors claim that the funds were obtained under false pretences. They allege that Dr. Abebe converted the N19 million to his personal use rather than applying it toward the agreed medical procedures.
The charge states that this alleged act constitutes an offence under Section 1 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006. The law prescribes penalties for obtaining money through fraudulent representations.
In addition to the financial allegations, the prosecution has accused the doctor of selling the couple’s fully developed embryos to other patients. This claim forms one of the most serious aspects of the case.
If proven, the alleged sale of embryos could represent one of the most significant fertility-related scandals in Nigeria in recent years. The matter raises concerns about ethical standards and regulatory oversight in assisted reproductive technology practices.
Dr. Abebe, who is described in court documents as a Chief Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist, is also identified as a pastor at a branch of Living Faith Church in Abuja. His dual role as a medical professional and religious leader has drawn public attention to the proceedings.
The case is currently before Justice A. A. Fashola of the FCT High Court. The court is expected to examine both the criminal allegations and the broader legal implications surrounding patient confidentiality and fertility treatment practices.
Legal observers note that the trial could test the enforcement of the National Health Act, particularly in relation to the protection of patients’ medical records. The case may also clarify the application of fraud laws in medical service transactions.
The prosecution is expected to present evidence to support its claims of fraudulent misrepresentation and unlawful disclosure of medical information. It will also seek to establish whether any embryos belonging to the couple were transferred or sold without their authorization.
As of the time of filing this report, the defendants have not publicly responded to the allegations in detail. The court proceedings are anticipated to continue in the coming weeks.
The outcome of the trial may have far-reaching consequences for medical practitioners operating fertility clinics in Nigeria. It could also influence regulatory scrutiny within the reproductive health sector.
The High Court’s eventual ruling will determine the legal responsibilities of the accused and whether the charges can be substantiated beyond reasonable doubt. Until then, the allegations remain subject to judicial determination.
