Abuja Doctor Arraigned for Fraud, Breach of Medical Confidentiality, and Sale of Embryos
An Abuja‑based medical practitioner, Dr. John Abebe, was on Wednesday arraigned before Justice A.A. Fashola of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Jabi, on a three‑count charge bordering on fraud, criminal conspiracy, and breach of medical confidentiality.
Dr. Abebe was arraigned alongside his hospital, Joje Abebe Hospital Limited, following charges filed by the Federal Government. The prosecution alleged that the defendant unlawfully disclosed confidential medical records of Mr. and Mrs. Mary Manga, in violation of Section 29 of the National Health Act, 2014.
It was further alleged that between January and May 2025, Abebe, a Chief Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, fraudulently obtained ₦19 million from the couple under the pretext of providing In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment, contrary to Section 1 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006.
Most grave among the allegations is the claim that the defendant sold the couple’s fully developed embryos to other patients, an act which, if proven, could constitute one of the most scandalous fertility‑related cases in Nigeria’s recent history.
Upon arraignment, Abebe and his hospital pleaded not guilty. His counsel, Marvin Omorogbe, applied for bail, which was not opposed by prosecuting counsel, Joseph Wada. Justice Fashola granted bail in the sum of ₦5 million, with one reliable surety in like sum, who must be a professional employed in a reputable and verifiable organisation.
The matter has been adjourned to 2 April 2026 for trial.
