A Nigerian healthcare assistant, Adewale Kudabo, has been sentenced to 12 months in prison by a UK court after pleading guilty to sexually assaulting a vulnerable patient under his care. The incident took place at York Hospital, where Kudabo was working at the time. The case has sparked widespread outrage and renewed conversations around patient safety, dignity, and trust in healthcare settings.
According to court proceedings, Kudabo, 47, assaulted a seriously ill female patient who was immobile and receiving treatment in a hospital bed. While giving her a bed bath, he leaned over and kissed her on the lips without consent. The disturbing act was repeated days later during another routine care procedure. The victim, who was already in significant physical distress, could not resist or protect herself from the unwanted advance.
The victim later reported feelings of anxiety, fear, and confusion, describing the kiss as deeply violating. She stated in court that the incident caused her to suffer flashbacks, a breakdown in her sense of safety, and a significant loss of trust in healthcare professionals. Prosecutors emphasized the grave abuse of power involved in the case, especially given the patient’s vulnerable condition and reliance on Kudabo for basic care.
Kudabo pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault and appeared before York Crown Court, where the judge sentenced him to one year in prison. He is expected to serve half the sentence in custody and the remainder on licence (parole). In addition to the prison term, Kudabo will be placed on the UK sex offenders register for ten years. His defense lawyer claimed he believed the kiss was a gesture of comfort, but the court found this explanation unacceptable given the circumstances.
The NHS Trust overseeing York Hospital has issued a formal apology to the victim and her family, stating that Kudabo is no longer employed at the facility. The Trust reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care and respect for patients. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding policies within medical institutions and the serious consequences of violating patient trust.
