A Federal Capital Territory High Court has postponed the trial of Dr. John Abebe and his medical facility.
Justice Akeem A. Fashola set the new hearing date for June 18, 2026.
Abebe faces serious allegations. He's accused of selling a patient's embryos and committing IVF fraud.
The Abuja-based doctor is also a pastor at Living Faith Church in Durumi. He runs Joje Abebe Hospital Limited.
Prosecutors charged him on March 11, 2026 with three counts of criminal conduct. The Federal Government, acting through the Inspector General of Police, filed the charges.
According to the charges, Abebe unlawfully disclosed Mary Manga's confidential medical records to the public. She never gave permission for this breach of privacy.
His actions violated Section 29 of the National Health Act 2014. The law protects patients' sensitive health information.
Between January and May 2025, prosecutors allege he defrauded the couple of N19 million. He presented himself as an IVF specialist during this period.
Abebe collected the money under false pretenses, according to court documents. He then converted the funds to personal use instead of providing treatment.
This conduct violates the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act of 2006. The law carries serious penalties for such deception.
Prosecutors also claim he sold the couple's fully developed embryos to other patients. The allegation adds another layer to the fraud accusations.
During Wednesday's court appearance, Abebe's lawyer had a change of heart. Marvin Omorogbe initially asked the judge for time to file a pending motion.
Prosecution counsel Malik D. Taiwo said he wasn't aware of any application.
He requested time to respond if the motion proceeded.
Omorogbe then reversed course mid-hearing. He told the court they were prepared to move forward with the main case.
Justice Fashola explained the court's position clearly. He noted the trial could only continue if Omorogbe withdrew his pending application.
Since the defense wasn't ready to withdraw it, the judge allowed the prosecution to file a written response. This procedural step delayed the substantive hearing.
Both Abebe and Joje Abebe Hospital Limited have pleaded not guilty. They deny all charges against them.
Abebe has remained on bail since his March 11 arraignment. He hasn't been detained while awaiting trial.
Court documents describe him as a 54-year-old chief consultant obstetrician and gynecologist. His hospital operates from Bamanga Tukur Street in Apo Legislative Quarters.
Count one alleges he abused his position of trust. As custodian of the Mangas' medical records, he had legal obligations to maintain confidentiality.
The disclosure caused emotional trauma to the victims. Mrs.
Manga hasn't fully recovered from the shock of having her private information exposed.
The case will now proceed on the June date. Both sides will present their evidence and arguments at that time.
