By Becky Usman

A Nigerian doctor, Ewere Onyekpe, is facing disciplinary action from medical authorities in the United Kingdom (UK) after engaging in a sexual relationship with a patient, even in a hospital restroom.

In January, the Medical Practitioners Tribunal of the General Medical Council (MPT of the GMC), a UK medical regulatory body, suspended Mr. Onyekpe’s medical license for a period of six months. This decision came after an investigative tribunal found him guilty of the inappropriate relationship.

The tribunal’s initial verdict became effective in February, with a scheduled review six months later. However, prior to the review date, the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care (PSA), an independent UK body responsible for upholding ethical and professional standards, raised objections to the leniency of the punishment imposed by the MPT.

PSA argued that the MPT’s decision did not adequately address the seriousness of the case and challenged it in a UK court of law. The court found merit in PSA’s arguments and ordered a retrial of the case by the MPT, taking into consideration the grounds of appeal raised by PSA.