IVF Scandal: Nigerian Govt Drags Abuja Doctor, Pastor Abebe, To Court Over Alleged N19Million Fraud, Sale Of Couple’s Embryos

February 23, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Health

Criminal charges have been filed in Nigeria against Dr. John Abebe, a medical practitioner based in Abuja who also serves as a pastor at Living Faith Church (Winners’ Chapel) in Durumi, Abuja. The allegations include fraud, criminal conspiracy, the unauthorized disclosure of confidential medical records, and the alleged sale of a couple’s embryos.

Details of the Charges

The charges were brought forth by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, under suit number CV/005/26. Dr. Abebe and his hospital, Joje Abebe Fertility Centre Limited, are named in the suit.

Allegations of Misconduct

Prosecutors allege that Dr. Abebe unlawfully released confidential medical records belonging to Mrs. Mary Manga without her consent, a violation of Section 29 of the National Health Act, 2014. This proves claimed that between January and May 2025, Dr. Abebe, identified as a Chief Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist, received N19 million (approximately $127,000 USD based on current exchange rates) from a couple seeking In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment.

Did You Know? The case is being heard before Justice A. A. Fashola of the FCT High Court.

The government contends that Dr. Abebe allegedly converted these funds to personal use, an offence punishable under Section 1 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006. Perhaps the most serious allegation is that Dr. Abebe sold the couple’s developed embryos to other patients. If substantiated, this claim could represent a significant scandal within Nigeria’s fertility sector.

Specific Counts Outlined

The first count details the alleged unauthorized release of Mrs. Manga’s medical records, claiming it caused her trauma. The second count centres on the alleged breach of confidentiality regarding Mr. Adamu Hassan’s medical information, which was reportedly included in a legal document and subsequently viewed by others, causing him distress. The third count focuses on the alleged fraudulent acquisition of N19 million from Mrs. Manga and her husband, under the pretense of IVF expertise, and the alleged misappropriation of funds and embryos.

Expert Insight: Allegations involving the sale of embryos raise profound ethical concerns regarding reproductive rights, patient autonomy, and the commercialization of human biological material. The legal proceedings will likely delve into the complex intersection of medical practise, financial dealings, and patient trust.

What Might Happen Next

The case is currently before the FCT High Court. A possible next step is a trial where evidence will be presented and witnesses examined. If convicted, Dr. Abebe and Joje Abebe Fertility Centre Limited could face penalties as outlined in the referenced Acts. It is also possible that the court could order restitution to the affected couple. The outcome of the case could influence future enforcement of health and fraud laws in Nigeria.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific laws are being cited in the charges?

The charges reference Section 29 of the National Health Act, 2014, concerning the unlawful disclosure of medical records, and Section 1 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006, regarding fraudulent acquisition of funds.

What is the alleged amount of money involved in the fraud claim?

Prosecutors claim Dr. Abebe obtained N19 million (approximately $127,000 USD) from the couple under the pretense of providing IVF services.

What is the significance of the allegation regarding the embryos?

The allegation that Dr. Abebe sold the couple’s embryos to other patients, if proven, could be considered a serious fertility-related scandal in Nigeria.

How might this case impact public trust in fertility clinics and medical professionals in Nigeria?

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