Oluwafunbi Bello 
ABUJA, Nigeria – An Abuja-based fertility doctor has been granted ₦5 million bail after appearing before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Jabi over an alleged ₦19 million IVF treatment fraud.
The defendant, Dr John Abebe, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist who operates Joje Abebe Hospital Limited, faces charges of fraud, criminal conspiracy and unlawful disclosure of confidential medical records.
He appeared before Justice A. A. Fashola on Wednesday following a case filed by the Inspector-General of Police after a petition submitted by Hassan Turaki.
Prosecutor Barrister Joseph Wada tells the court that Abebe allegedly deceived a couple — identified as Mrs Mary Manga and her husband — between January and May 2025 by claiming expertise in In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment.
According to the prosecution, the doctor collected ₦19 million for the procedure under false pretences and allegedly diverted the funds for personal use.
The charges were filed under Section 1 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act 2006.
Prosecutors also accuse the doctor of releasing the couple’s confidential medical records without consent, an alleged breach of Section 29 of the National Health Act 2014, which protects patient privacy.
Defence counsel Barrister Marvin Omorogbe applies for bail on behalf of the defendant, a request the prosecution does not oppose.
Justice Fashola grants bail at ₦5 million with one reliable surety of equal value.
The management of Joje Abebe Fertility Centre Ltd denies the allegations, describing the case as an attempt to damage the doctor’s reputation.
The court adjourns proceedings to 2 April 2026 for the commencement of trial.
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