Nigerian Doctor Suspended for Having Sex with Patient in UK Hospital
A Nigerian doctor, Ewere Onyekpe, has been suspended for an additional six months in the UK after being accused of engaging in sexual activity with a patient in a hospital’s toilet cubicle. The incident took place while Mr. Onyekpe was working as a locum registrar at the Whittington Hospital in London.
The Medical Practitioners Tribunal of the General Medical Council (GMC) imposed a six-month suspension on Mr. Onyekpe’s practicing license after finding him guilty of misconduct. However, the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care (PSA) appealed against this decision, leading to a tribunal hearing in February.
During the tribunal hearing, it was revealed that Mr. Onyekpe had initiated a sexual relationship with the patient, who was considered vulnerable, after examining her at the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department. The relationship escalated quickly, with the pair engaging in sexual intercourse in the hospital’s toilet cubicle and at the patient’s home.
The tribunal determined that Mr. Onyekpe’s registration should be suspended for 12 months, which was later reduced to six months to reflect the suspension already served. The tribunal highlighted the doctor’s failure to prioritize the care of the patient, who was vulnerable at all times.
In defense of his actions, Mr. Onyekpe accepted responsibility for his misconduct, acknowledging that he had crossed professional boundaries. His representative emphasized that the relationship was consensual and pointed out Mr. Onyekpe’s cooperation with the investigation process.
Despite calls for his name to be erased from the medical register, the tribunal concluded that the misconduct was adequately addressed with the suspension. Mr. Onyekpe, who began his medical career in Nigeria before moving to the UK in 2008, has a history of working in various hospitals across the country.
As the suspension takes effect, Mr. Onyekpe has the option to lodge an appeal, allowing him to practice unrestricted until the outcome of the appeal is known. The tribunal also revoked the interim order of conditions with immediate effect.
The case of Ewere Onyekpe serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professional boundaries in the medical field and prioritizing the well-being of patients at all times.
