UK NMC To Strike Off Nigerian-Born Nurse Over Antisemitic Remarks
London, 22 May 2026 — The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has ruled that Nigerian-born mental health nurse Helen Oluyemisi Balogun should be struck off the UK nursing register after a tribunal found her guilty of serious professional misconduct involving repeated antisemitic comments.
Ms Balogun, who registered with the NMC in April 2009 and was employed by the Priory Group, made remarks that the panel described as “very serious”.
Details of the Case
The Fitness to Practise tribunal heard that Ms Balogun referred to Jewish patients as being “tight with money” and explicitly linked the comment to their Jewish identity. She made the same observation about at least two patients.
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She also told a Jewish colleague words to the effect that “Jews don’t believe in/accept Jesus”, a comment the panel noted was presented as half-joking.
Tribunal Findings
The NMC panel highlighted a “consistent theme and pattern” in Ms Balogun’s responses, noting that she repeatedly tried to minimise the comments rather than accept full responsibility. Despite claims of “sincere remorse” put forward by her representative, the tribunal concluded that her conduct fell far below the standards expected of a registered nurse.
An interim suspension order has been imposed. Unless she successfully appeals, Ms Balogun will be permanently removed from the NMC register. The full reasons for the decision are available on the NMC website following the May 2026 hearing.
Implications for the Nursing Profession
This case underscores the NMC’s strict enforcement of standards around equality, diversity and inclusion in healthcare settings. Regulator treat discriminatory language, including antisemitism as incompatible with the duty to provide safe, respectful care to patients and colleagues alike.
Experts in professional regulation note that such rulings serve as a reminder of the high bar set for registrants, particularly those working in mental health where trust and cultural sensitivity are paramount. Internationally trained nurses, who form a significant part of the UK workforce, often navigate complex cultural transitions; ongoing training in protected characteristics and unconscious bias remains essential to meet regulatory expectations.
The decision reflects broader efforts across the NHS and regulatory bodies to maintain public confidence through zero-tolerance policies on prejudice. While individual cases like this are rare, they highlight the importance of continuous professional development in equality and inclusion.
We will continue to monitor this development and provide updates as they emerge.
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Charles Wealth is an accomplished healthcare administrator with decades of hands-on experience across various healthcare organizations in Nigeria and beyond. Known for his strategic leadership, operational excellence, and deep commitment to advancing the nursing profession, Charles brings a wealth of expertise to healthcare management, policy, and professional development.
As a co-founder and Editor at Fellow Nurses Africa, he plays a pivotal role in shaping content that educates, inspires, and unites nurses across the continent. His editorial vision focuses on amplifying the voices of nurses, highlighting best practices, addressing contemporary challenges in healthcare, and promoting professional growth within the nursing community.
With a strong background in healthcare administration, Charles is passionate about bridging the gap between clinical practice and effective leadership. He continues to contribute significantly to the development of robust healthcare systems and the empowerment of nurses through knowledge sharing and advocacy.
