By Ghazali Ibrahim
A 47 year old Nigerian hospital worker, Adewale Kudabo, has been sentenced to one year in prison by a UK court for sexually assaulting a female patient under his care.
Kudabo, who was employed at a hospital in the United Kingdom, was responsible for bathing patients who were paralyzed or too weak to care for themselves.
The incident involved a female patient identified as Henry Fernandez.
According to court testimony, the first incident occurred while Kudabo was assisting Fernandez with a bath.
After completing the task, he unexpectedly leaned in and kissed her on the lips. The victim told the court she was taken by surprise and did not consent to the action.
The following day, after bathing her again, Kudabo allegedly attempted to kiss her a second time. This time, Fernandez turned her head away to avoid contact.
Disturbed by the repeated advances, she reported the incident to the hospital management.
In an effort to manage the situation quietly, the hospital asked Kudabo to resign to avoid public scandal.
However, Fernandez proceeded to report the matter to the police. Kudabo was later arrested at his residence.
He was charged with two counts of sexual assault and pleaded guilty to both.
At sentencing, Judge Alex Menary emphasized the seriousness of the offense and ruled that Kudabo must serve a minimum of six months before being eligible for early release based on good behavior.
During the hearing, Kudabo expressed remorse for his actions and apologized to the victim.
He claimed he acted out of pity and thought the kiss would make her feel better.
Kudabo is reported to be married with children.
