Adewale Kudabo, a 47-year-old Nigerian man working at a UK hospital, has been sentenced to one year in prison for sexually assaulting a paralyzed patient under his care. Kudabo’s role involved bathing patients who were too weak or paralyzed to bathe themselves.
The victim, Henry Fernandez, reported that during two separate occasions when Kudabo was assisting her with bathing, he unexpectedly leaned in and kissed her on the lips. The first kiss took her by surprise, and during the second incident, she moved her head to avoid the kiss.
Following the incidents, Fernandez reported the matter to hospital management, which led to Kudabo’s resignation to avoid scandal. She then reported the assault to the police, who arrested Kudabo at his home.
He was charged with two counts of sexual assault, pleaded guilty to both, and was sentenced by Judge Alex Menary. The judge ordered that Kudabo serve at least six months in prison before being eligible for any early release, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense.
In court, Kudabo apologized to the victim, claiming he kissed her out of pity for her condition, hoping it would make her feel better. He is married with children.
The case has highlighted the vulnerability of patients and the importance of safeguarding measures within healthcare settings.
