BREAKING NEWS: Nigerian Healthcare Worker Jailed for Sexual Assault on Patient at York Hospital
Fellow Nurses Africa News || Published June 11, 2025
A Nigerian healthcare assistant, Adewale Kudabo, has been sentenced to one year in prison for sexually assaulting a vulnerable patient at York Hospital, UK. The 47-year-old, formerly employed by the York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault, sparking outrage and raising concerns about patient safety.
Kudabo assaulted a female patient in severe pain, kissing her on the lips without consent after bathing her. Days later, he attempted to kiss her again during another “bed bath” offer, despite her efforts to move away. The victim, left traumatized with anxiety and flashbacks, reported the incidents to the police.
On June 10, 2025, Judge Alex Menary sentenced Kudabo, stating he “abused the trust” placed in him as a healthcare worker. Kudabo, who moved from Nigeria to the UK for work, expressed remorse, but the court deemed his actions a serious breach of ethics, warranting immediate imprisonment. He must serve half the sentence before being eligible for release.
The Trust apologized, stating, “We deeply regret this incident. The individual left our employment soon after.” Kudabo’s actions contrast sharply with the International Council of Nurses’ 2025 Helsinki Communiqué, which emphasizes “culturally safe, people-centred care” and ethical standards.
This case underscores the need for robust safeguarding, ethical training, and accountability in healthcare. Nurses are urged to advocate for patient safety and uphold professional integrity, aligning with the ICN’s call for stronger regulations and protections.
Source: Connell, Dylan. “York Hospital worker jailed for sex assault on patient.” The York Press, June 11, 2025.
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